PM Shri Yojana Explained: First Installment Released to Upgrade 14,500 Schools Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released the first installment of funds under the PM Shri Yojana. This significant step marks the beginning of a major initiative aimed at transforming the country’s educational infrastructure. The scheme, which is very close to the Prime Minister’s heart, is founded on the belief that education is the single most powerful tool to change the destiny of a person, a family, a state, and the nation itself. #### What is the PM Shri Yojana? The PM Shri Yojana, which stands for Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India, was officially launched by the Prime Minister on Teachers’ Day, September 5, 2022. The core objective of this scheme is to upgrade and modernize 14,500 existing schools across the country. The total budget allocated for this transformative project is ₹27,360 crore. With the release of the first installment, millions of students studying in these schools are set to benefit from enhanced facilities and a modern learning environment. #### How the Scheme Works A key feature of the PM Shri Yojana is its method of fund disbursement. Unlike schemes like the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi where money is transferred directly to an individual’s account, the funds for this initiative are sent directly to the designated schools’ bank accounts. This money is then used to completely transform the school’s infrastructure and provide modern facilities for the students. #### The Goal: Transforming Government Schools This scheme aims to address the often poor conditions of government schools. The plan is to upgrade these schools into modern educational institutions. The improvements will include: Modern Classrooms: Upgrading the internal structure of classrooms to create a better learning atmosphere. Proper Seating: Providing top-class benches for students who may currently be sitting on the floor. * Digital Blackboards: Replacing traditional blackboards with modern, digital ones that can be used for interactive teaching and learning. This is a dream project designed to ensure that students in government schools have access to the best possible facilities. #### Connection to National Education Policy and Future Plans The PM Shri Yojana is a key component of the National Education Policy. In addition to upgrading 14,500 schools, the scheme also includes a plan to establish one PM Shri Model School in every block across the country. The release of the first installment of funds, amounting to ₹18,128 crore as announced today, marks a major step forward in achieving these goals and strengthening the nation’s educational foundation.