Andhra Pradesh ranks No. 1 in PM-SHRI funds utilisation: Minister Lokesh
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Andhra Pradesh has achieved the top national ranking in the utilization of funds under the Prime Minister's Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme, a significant milestone announced by Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh. This achievement underscores the state's proactive approach to modernizing government schools and is complemented by the ongoing distribution of essential educational kits to over 203,430 junior college students, directly impacting a vast student population. This top ranking highlights Andhra Pradesh effective implementation of a critical Central Government initiative aimed at transforming existing schools into model institutions aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. While other states like Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have shown resistance or fluctuating commitment to the PM-SHRI scheme due to concerns over curriculum control or branding, Andhra Pradesh robust fund utilization sets a benchmark for efficiency. The state is simultaneously pushing forward with ambitious welfare programs, including the construction of 844 'smart kitchens' in schools, installing over 53,000 bunk beds for girl students in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, and ensuring the seamless distribution of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Vidyarthi Mitra Kits. Andhra Pradesh accelerated progress positions it as a leader in educational reform, with Minister Lokesh emphasizing continuous infrastructure upgrades and improved learning outcomes, targeting over 95% student attendance. The focus will now shift to sustaining this momentum, expanding successful initiatives like the 'Kadapa model' for smart kitchens statewide, and ensuring schemes like 'Talliki Vandanam' reach all intended beneficiaries, including orphaned children, creating a holistic and equitable educational ecosystem. Other states grappling with PM-SHRI implementation will likely observe Andhra Pradesh model for best practices as the scheme approaches its final year of initial implementation by 2026-27.