Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Kerala UDF Divides Over PM SHRI Scheme Implementation
Kerala’s ruling coalition is arguing about a new school program from the national government.
One leader says the state must follow the agreement the previous government signed.
Another says the program hasn’t been decided yet and the state will not accept any rules the national government sets.
A committee will look at the plan and give advice.
The final decision will come after that report.
UDF convener Adoor Prakash said Kerala must implement PM SHRI scheme because the previous LDF government signed the MoU.
State education minister N Samsudheen echoed that the government cannot withdraw from the agreement.
Minister P K Kunhalikutty denied that the UDF discussed the scheme, saying decisions await a cabinet subcommittee report.
Kunhalikutty warned Kerala would reject any central conditions on curriculum or school selection.
Both sides agree a cabinet subcommittee will review the scheme before any final decision.
- Who
- UDF convener Adoor Prakash, state minister P K Kunhalikutty, and education minister N Samsudheen
- What
- Debate over whether Kerala should implement the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme
- When
- July 30-31, 2024
- Where
- Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
- Why
- The scheme was signed by the previous LDF government, and the current UDF government is debating whether to honor the agreement and how to apply it
- Scheme
- Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI)
- Signatory
- Previous LDF government
- Current government
- UDF led by Congress
- Subcommittee
- Cabinet-appointed review panel
- Funding withheld
- SSK funds blocked for 3 years due to PM SHRI
- State funds due
- ~Rs 1,500 crore under SSK