Gurgaon: Government schools selected under the PM SHRI (Prime Minister Schools for Rising India) scheme continue to lack basic infrastructure even two years after their selection, leading to a prolonged delay in their CBSE affiliation process. The scheme, which aims to develop model schools equipped with smart classrooms, digital libraries, and advanced learning tools, has been hindered by administrative bottlenecks and insufficient budget allocation.
Selection and Implementation Gap
In Gurgaon, eight government schools were chosen in two phases under the PM SHRI initiative. Despite the promise of modern facilities, funds have not yet reached these institutions. This gap between policy intent and ground-level execution has raised concerns among stakeholders regarding the pace of implementation.
CBSE Affiliation Requirements
Officials explain that CBSE affiliation requires mandatory certifications, including structural safety clearance from the Public Works Department (PWD), fire safety approval from the fire department, sanitation certification from the health department, and proof of safe drinking water from the public health department. None of these processes can be completed without installing requisite infrastructure, particularly fire safety systems, which remain absent in these schools.
Broader Impact Across Haryana
Across Haryana, 126 government schools were selected under the PM SHRI scheme, including institutions in Ambala, Bhiwani, Hisar, Karnal, Sonipat, and Yamunanagar. Similar delays have been reported in several districts, where the lack of fire safety equipment and other basic amenities has slowed implementation and affected CBSE recognition.
Official Response
District project coordinator Sudesh Raghav stated that the process is underway and necessary documentation is being prepared. “Once the paperwork is completed, the schools will be forwarded for further facilitation, after which the affiliation process is expected to gain momentum,” he said. For now, schools have been asked to submit budget requirements. Installation of fire safety systems is expected only after funds are released, following which the CBSE affiliation process can begin. Until then, students will have to wait longer to benefit from the scheme.
