Is the Rift Widening in the Left Government as Kerala Signs the PM SHRI Pact?
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Synopsis
Kerala's recent signing of the PM SHRI pact with the Centre may deepen existing rifts within the Left Democratic Front, as CPI leaders voice strong opposition. This move raises questions about the state's education policy and ideological independence. Will the Left coalition withstand this challenge? Read on to find out more.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala signs PM SHRI project with the Centre.
- CPI strongly opposes the initiative, raising concerns about state education policy.
- Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's silence on the matter adds to tensions.
- Congress criticizes the move, alleging potential saffronisation of education.
- Centre promises release of funds following the agreement.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 23 (NationPress) On Thursday, Kerala executed a significant agreement with the Centre regarding the PM SHRI (Prime Minister’s School for Rising India) initiative, which has intensified divisions within the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). The Communist Party of India (CPI), a notable ally of the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government, has voiced strong objections to this initiative since its inception.
The Education Secretary represented Kerala in the memorandum of understanding signed between the Union and State governments.
Consistent in their opposition, the CPI has raised concerns over the scheme three times during Cabinet meetings. This recent development is likely to exacerbate tensions within the Pinarayi Vijayan administration. CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam has repeatedly stated that the party is “firmly opposed” to the project, arguing that the PM SHRI initiative threatens the state's education policy and may lead to “ideological interference” from the Centre.
Party insiders have expressed frustration that Chief Minister Vijayan did not address their concerns during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, even after they brought up the topic.
When questioned about the signed agreement, Viswam responded on Thursday night, saying he had “nothing to say” at this moment.
The CPI’s student wing has also expressed discontent. Their leader, Bipin Abraham, stated, “If the reports are true, this goes against the declared policy of the Left. We will not dilute our stand and will announce our next steps soon.”
Meanwhile, the Congress party has criticized the state government, claiming that participation in the PM SHRI scheme would result in the “saffronisation” of Kerala’s education system.
Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan has warned the Vijayan government against signing this agreement and urged them to follow Tamil Nadu's example of resistance to the project.
The Centre has, however, promised that the withheld funds for Samagra Shiksha Keralam (SSK), estimated at Rs 1,500 crore, will be released following the signing.
Initiated in September 2022 under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the PM SHRI project aims to transform 14,500 government schools nationwide into model institutions, with a total budget of Rs 27,000 crore.
Point of View
The signing of the PM SHRI pact by Kerala's Left government showcases the complex interplay between state and central educational policies. The opposition from CPI highlights a critical debate on ideological independence in education. As we monitor these developments, it's essential to recognize the diverse opinions within the ruling coalition and their impact on governance.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM SHRI project?
The PM SHRI initiative, or Prime Minister’s School for Rising India, aims to upgrade 14,500 government schools across India into model institutions under the National Education Policy 2020.
Why is the CPI opposing the PM SHRI scheme?
The CPI believes that the PM SHRI project undermines Kerala's education policy and could lead to ideological interference from the Centre.
What are the implications of Kerala signing the PM SHRI pact?
The signing may exacerbate tensions within the Left Democratic Front and raise concerns about the direction of Kerala's education system.
How has the Congress party reacted to this development?
The Congress party has criticized the state government, alleging that the PM SHRI scheme could lead to the saffronisation of Kerala’s education system.
What financial support is tied to the PM SHRI project?
The Centre has assured that Rs 1,500 crore in withheld funds for Samagra Shiksha Keralam will be released following the signing of the PM SHRI pact.
