Thiruvananthapuram

The Kerala government has constituted a four-member cabinet sub-committee to examine issues related to the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme and formulate the state's position before communicating it to the Centre, Chief Minister V D Satheesan said on Wednesday.

Addressing reporters after a Cabinet meeting, Satheesan said the committee was established to study various aspects of the centrally sponsored education initiative and assess its implementation in the state.

The panel comprises ministers N Samsudheen, Roji M John, P C Vishnunadh and M Liju.

The chief minister reiterated the state's view that educational matters such as curriculum development should remain within the jurisdiction of the state government. He also maintained that Kerala should have the authority to identify and select schools where the PM SHRI scheme would be implemented.

Satheesan noted that Kerala had already received ₹99 crore under the programme, while the Centre had approved a total allocation of ₹106 crore for the state.

He pointed out that the agreement to implement the PM SHRI scheme was signed by the previous state government, which had also accepted central funding under the initiative.

“Since the earlier government entered into the agreement and accepted the funds, we are obliged to move forward with the scheme,” Satheesan said.

The PM SHRI programme aims to develop selected schools across the country into model institutions equipped with modern infrastructure, innovative teaching methods and improved learning outcomes. However, questions regarding administrative autonomy and curriculum-related provisions have prompted discussions in several states.

READ MORE: Fatima Husna proudly guides tourists through Hyderabad's history

The newly formed committee is expected to examine these concerns and submit recommendations on Kerala’s future engagement with the scheme.