Bolstering the education sector in the state, the Odisha government is gearing up to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to implement the PM SHRI Schools scheme. This initiative is poised to mark a milestone before the academic year 2024-25 commences.
The Ministry of Education, in an official release, stated, ‘Odisha Government has taken a far-reaching decision to sign an MoU with Ministry of Education, Government of India to implement PM SHRI Scheme.’ Expressing full support for the initiative, the Ministry added, ‘We enthusiastically support this initiative as it reflects our collective dedication to strengthen school education and ensuring the comprehensive development of students in Odisha.’
Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), the PM SHRI scheme is a centrally sponsored initiative by the Government of India. It aims to establish over 14,500 PM SHRI Schools nationwide, including those managed by Central Government, State/UT Governments, local bodies, KVS, and NVS.
The primary objective of PM SHRI Schools is to create an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported. This fosters a culture of engaged citizenship, a vision outlined in the NEP 2020. With an anticipated direct impact on more than 20 lakh students, the scheme is designed to enhance the quality of school education and drive policy formulation and implementation.
Over a span of five years, from 2022-23 to 2026-27, the initiative aims not only to benefit immediate beneficiaries but also to serve as a blueprint for enhancing educational standards nationwide. The PM SHRI Schools seek to provide a model for comprehensive development and a high standard of education, reflecting the commitment of both the Odisha government and the Ministry of Education towards the advancement of the education sector.
