Should Kerala Cancel the PM-SHRI Scheme?
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Synopsis
The CPI's urgent call for the Kerala government to cancel the PM-SHRI scheme highlights a brewing internal conflict within the Left Front. Will this demand be met, or will it lead to deeper divisions among the parties? Dive into the intricacies of this political debate and its implications for educational reforms in Kerala.
Key Takeaways
- CPI insists on the cancellation of the PM-SHRI scheme.
- High-level discussions between CPI and CPI-M leaders.
- Concerns over lack of consultation and coalition protocols.
- State government aims for federal funding.
- Ongoing internal tensions within the Left Front.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 25 (NationPress) The CPI continues to insist that the Kerala government retract its agreement to enact the PM-SHRI scheme, even following a senior-level meeting between CPI General Secretary D. Raja and CPI-M General Secretary M.A. Baby at AKG Bhavan in Delhi this past Saturday.
“Our stance is unequivocal: the PM-SHRI agreement must be annulled,” Raja stated, noting that the issue was thoroughly discussed and that the CPI anticipates the CPI-M to reassess its position.
Baby mentioned that the leadership of both parties in the state would address the matter.
In Kerala, Education Minister V. Sivankutty personally met with CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam at the MN Memorial to deliberate on the situation.
State Food Minister and senior CPI figure G.R. Anil was also in attendance.
After their discussions, Sivankutty confirmed that specific issues concerning the PM-SHRI were addressed but refrained from sharing further details, asserting, “I cannot comment at this moment; all issues will be resolved.”
Reports suggest that the Minister informed the CPI that the government's choice was focused on obtaining federal funding. Later, LDF convener TP Ramakrishnan stated that the LDF would re-evaluate both the signed agreement and the concerns raised by the CPI.
He added that the implications of the National Education Policy (NEP) regarding PM-SHRI would also be scrutinized, with all parties' perspectives taken into account before making a conclusive decision.
The CPI has voiced objections over the lack of consultation and coalition protocols, while the CPI-M has defended the decision of the state government.
Party leaders have tasked Sivankutty with engaging in reconciliation discussions ahead of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s return from abroad tomorrow.
Ramakrishnan expressed optimism that the dialogues would aid in resolving the disagreement.
The ongoing discussion underscores internal tensions within the Left Front as the government navigates Central mandates alongside the sensitivities of its coalition ahead of significant educational reforms.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that even some CPI-M Ministers were unaware of the Vijayan administration’s decision to proceed with the PM-SHRI program, and a senior State Education official was set to endorse it. It was only after news broke on Thursday that many in the Vijayan cabinet became aware of it.
Point of View
The situation in Kerala reflects broader challenges within coalition politics in India. As the CPI's demand for the cancellation of the PM-SHRI scheme surfaces, it illustrates the delicate balance that state governments must maintain between central directives and regional sensitivities. The outcome of this debate will not only affect educational reforms but also the stability of the coalition government in Kerala.
NationPress
25/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM-SHRI scheme?
The PM-SHRI scheme is an initiative aimed at improving the quality of education in schools across India, focusing on various reforms in the educational sector.
Why is the CPI demanding the cancellation of the PM-SHRI scheme?
The CPI argues that the scheme was implemented without adequate consultation and adherence to coalition protocols, leading to concerns about its implications for state education.
What are the potential implications of canceling the PM-SHRI scheme?
Canceling the PM-SHRI could impact educational funding and reform initiatives in Kerala, potentially affecting the quality of education and central-state relations.
How are coalition partners responding to the CPI's demands?
The CPI-M has defended the decision to proceed with the PM-SHRI scheme, while internal discussions are ongoing to address the concerns raised by the CPI.
What is the LDF's position on the PM-SHRI agreement?
The LDF has stated that it will review the signed agreement and the issues raised by the CPI before making a final decision.
