Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: The ministerial sub-committee constituted to decide the future of the PM SHRI School scheme is expected to submit its report to Chief Minister VD Satheesan soon. The committee is likely to finalise the report at its next meeting after examining various aspects, including pressure from the Union government.

Meanwhile, teacher organisations, including the IUML-backed KSTU, have approached General Education Minister N Samsudheen, urging the government to avoid controversy over a scheme that is due to expire within months and instead focus on measures to improve public education. 

A section of IUML leaders is also questioning whether the party should take a political risk over PM SHRI.

League organisations' stand

League-affiliated organisations argue that the PM SHRI School scheme is intended to project the benefits of the National Education Policy (NEP). They contend that the government could face political repercussions if it fails to exercise caution over a scheme they say carries an agenda of saffronisation. They also point out that the NEP prescribes a 5+3+3+4 academic structure, which Kerala has not accepted.

They further argue that if PM SHRI is implemented, there is no certainty that the existing education structure can continue. Under the centrally sponsored PM SHRI scheme, the state is required to bear 40 per cent of the expenditure, while the political credit would go to the Union government.

Eight months left under agreement

The agreement signed between the then LDF government and the Union government in October 2025 has only eight months remaining. According to the memorandum of understanding, the agreement is valid until 31 March 2027.

It will be extended once it receives approval from the Union Ministry of Education. The state government is preparing to seek the Centre's approval to continue the Kerala syllabus and retain the freedom to select schools.