Is the Kerala government’s decision to join the PM SHRI scheme a major victory for ABVP?
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Synopsis
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) celebrates a significant victory as the Kerala government joins the PM SHRI scheme following extensive protests. This decision promises to upgrade schools across the state, enhancing educational standards and infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- ABVP's campaign led to the Kerala government's decision to join the PM SHRI scheme.
- 336 schools in Kerala are set to benefit from the initiative.
- The PM SHRI scheme aims to upgrade educational standards nationally.
- The decision reflects the power of student advocacy in influencing government policy.
- Continued efforts by ABVP will focus on enhancing student welfare and educational reforms.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 19 (NationPress) The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has celebrated the Kerala government's decision to join the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme, deeming it a significant triumph for the organization's enduring campaign and demonstrations statewide.
For several months, ABVP had pressed the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government to sign the agreement with the Centre for the implementation of the PM SHRI scheme in Kerala, a step that would facilitate the upgrading of numerous schools to national standards.
Earlier this week, Education Minister V. Sivankutty confirmed that Kerala has finally consented to join the scheme, following extended reluctance and political discord within the ruling coalition.
In a statement released on Sunday, ABVP asserted it was "the sole student organization that persistently advocated for the prompt inclusion of Kerala in the PM SHRI scheme" since the scheme's launch.
The organization recalled that on April 18, an ABVP delegation met with Minister Sivankutty and submitted a memorandum urging him to endorse the agreement.
The student group claimed that instead of addressing their valid demands, the Kerala government "sought to silence the voice of Vidyarthi Parishad" by deploying police force and conducting assaults on its activists, including Kerala State Secretary E.U. Eswaraprasad.
Despite what it termed as "coercive tactics and political animosity", ABVP maintained persistent statewide protests to advocate for the implementation of the scheme.
The PM SHRI initiative, introduced by the Union Government, aims to enhance over 14,500 schools across India by upgrading existing institutions managed by central, state, and local authorities.
The scheme is intended to convert these schools into model institutions comparable to Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.
According to ABVP, approximately 336 schools in Kerala are poised to gain directly from the programme. Embracing the recent decision, ABVP Kerala State Secretary E.U. Eswaraprasad remarked, "This is a victory for the student community that trusted ABVP. Despite facing violent opposition from the ruling government, our unwavering efforts have finally yielded results. The PM SHRI scheme will enhance the educational landscape in Kerala and ensure our students have access to improved infrastructure and opportunities."
He added that ABVP would "continue to spearhead" efforts in addressing issues affecting students and the education sector in Kerala.
Point of View
The decision of the Kerala government to join the PM SHRI scheme reflects a response to grassroots advocacy, highlighting the importance of student organizations in shaping educational policies. It underscores the dynamic between government actions and public sentiment, a critical element in democratic governance.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM SHRI scheme?
The PM SHRI scheme is an initiative by the Union Government aimed at upgrading over 14,500 schools across India to enhance their infrastructure and educational standards.
How many schools in Kerala will benefit from this scheme?
Approximately 336 schools in Kerala are expected to benefit directly from the PM SHRI scheme.
What role did ABVP play in this decision?
ABVP played a crucial role by persistently demanding the implementation of the PM SHRI scheme and organizing statewide protests to raise awareness and pressure the government.
Who announced the decision to join the PM SHRI scheme?
The decision was announced by Education Minister V. Sivankutty after prolonged discussions and political deliberations.
What are the expected outcomes of the PM SHRI scheme?
The scheme aims to transform schools into model institutions, improving educational quality and providing better opportunities for students.
