Andhra leads south in PMShri scheme

Andhra Pradesh has emerged as a national leader in the implementation of the central government’s Prime Minister's Schools for Rising India (PMShri) scheme, a flagship initiative to modernize government schools in line with the National Education Policy. The state has topped all southern states and secured the second position nationwide, following only Uttar Pradesh. A total of 935 government schools in Andhra Pradesh have been selected under the scheme.

The PMShri initiative provides vital financial assistance to selected schools to ensure they evolve into model institutions. So far, the central government has selected 14,500 schools across the country for the program. Uttar Pradesh leads with 1,725 schools, while Andhra Pradesh follows closely behind, with the selected schools poised for a complete educational overhaul.

The PMShri scheme is designed to facilitate the holistic development of students and equip them with essential 21st-century skills. The program focuses on several key areas:

• Teacher Training: Educators will receive specialized training in new teaching methods and the use of digital technology to enhance classroom instruction.

• Infrastructure Development: The initiative includes the establishment of state-of-the-art science laboratories and libraries. So far, playgrounds are being developed in 755 schools, and 855 schools have received new library books and sports equipment.

• Skill and Career Development: Over 1.8 lakh individuals have been trained in 10 different trades across 794 schools. Furthermore, 20,725 students have been provided with valuable industry experience through internships.

• Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices: The scheme promotes environmental responsibility by supporting rainwater harvesting in 529 schools and the establishment of kitchen gardens in 532 schools for midday meals. Future plans include developing schools into "green campuses" with solar power generation and effective waste management systems.

The central government provides each selected school with an annual management fund ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1.50 lakh, depending on student enrollment. This year alone, Rs. 494 crore has been sanctioned for the PMShri scheme in Andhra Pradesh. The utilization of these funds is closely monitored through a dedicated mobile app, ensuring transparency and accountability.

B. Srinivasa Rao, the SSA SPD, highlighted that the PMShri scheme, alongside other initiatives like autism centers, "no bag days," Scouts, and personalized adaptive learning, is part of a broader effort to create a new "AP Model of Education." The state government is committed to the comprehensive educational development of its students, preparing them for a dynamic future.