Kerala’s government is holding off on a decision about the central PM-SHRI school scheme until a special cabinet sub-committee delivers its findings, General Education Minister N. Samsudheen confirmed on Sunday. The move reflects ongoing tensions between state and central authorities over how the initiative should roll out.

Key facts

  • The previous LDF government signed an agreement with the Centre to implement PM-SHRI
  • Implementation was paused following internal opposition
  • The new UDF government formed a cabinet sub-committee to review the scheme
  • Minister Samsudheen said there is "no urgency" to decide

Background of the Agreement

The previous Left Democratic Front government had committed to the Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India scheme, striking a deal with the Centre to bring the program to Kerala. But almost as soon as the ink dried, voices within the ruling coalition raised objections, putting the plans on ice.

Current Government’s Stance

Now, with the United Democratic Front in power—a group that had openly criticized the scheme—the state is taking a cautious, deliberate approach. A special cabinet sub-committee is digging into the details, and the government won’t move until it has their full report.

“The previous government signed it and gave an assurance to the Centre that we would implement it. That is the background before us. So, we are considering what should be done in such a situation,” Samsudheen told reporters.

No Rush to Decide

Despite the existing agreement, the minister emphasized there’s no pressing deadline. “There is no emergency in the matter,” he said. “A decision will be made later.” His tone was measured, suggesting Kerala intends to weigh its options carefully rather than be rushed into a politically sensitive commitment.