Kerala's PM SHRI Freeze Sparks Educational Debate

Union Minister George Kurian criticized the Kerala government's decision to halt further procedures under the PM SHRI scheme, suggesting it will only have 'paper value.' He emphasized the importance of central educational initiatives, arguing the move deprives students from poor backgrounds of crucial opportunities.

Union Minister George Kurian has denounced the Kerala government's decision to halt the PM SHRI scheme, labeling the move as having mere 'paper value.' The freeze follows a disagreement within the ruling coalition, particularly from CPI, regarding the educational initiative.

Kurian likened the state's decision to assemblies opting against laws passed by Parliament, asserting that the ultimate call rests with the Union Education Ministry. Emphasizing the alignment of the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan with the National Education Policy, Kurian accused the state of jeopardizing the future of its students.

In his remarks, Kurian underscored the curriculum's focus on practical skill development, which aims to prepare students from Class 6 onwards for vocational paths. He also highlighted that the freezing of the scheme might deny students from impoverished backgrounds essential educational benefits, a sentiment echoed by ABVP's appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

(With inputs from agencies.)