Education Reforms – Andhra Pradesh Leads Nation in PM-SHRI Fund Utilisation
Education Reforms – Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the top-performing state in the country in the effective utilisation of Central government funds under the PM-SHRI programme, a key initiative aimed at upgrading and modernising government schools. Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh announced the achievement while reviewing the progress of various education-related programmes with senior officials at his residence in Undavalli.
Focus on Expanding School Infrastructure
During the review meeting, the minister praised the education department for securing the highest national ranking and encouraged officials to maintain the same pace as multiple development projects are being implemented across the state. He directed authorities to begin the construction of 844 smart kitchens during the current year, taking inspiration from the successful pilot project already introduced in Kadapa district.
Officials informed the minister that the distribution of Sarvepalli Radhakrishna Vidyarthi Mitra kits has already started across educational institutions. The process is expected to be completed before the upcoming Mega Parent-Teacher Meeting, ensuring that students receive the required learning materials on time.
Improved Facilities for Residential Students
Student welfare remained a major focus during the discussions. Lokesh approved the procurement of 53,180 bunk beds to improve accommodation facilities for more than 1.06 lakh girl students studying in 430 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) across the state. He also stated that similar arrangements would gradually be extended to other residential schools and colleges managed by the government.
In addition, educational kits are currently being distributed to over 2.03 lakh students enrolled in junior colleges, strengthening support for learners at different academic levels.
Measures to Increase Transparency
Addressing regulatory issues, the minister instructed officials to simplify approval procedures for private unaided schools by removing avoidable compliance-related obstacles. At the same time, he stressed the need for greater transparency in fee collection practices.
According to the new directions, all private educational institutions will be required to prominently display their fee structures on campus notice boards and also publish the same information online so that parents and students can access it easily.
Special Attention to Orphaned Children
Lokesh also reviewed the implementation of the Thalliki Vandanam welfare scheme and directed officials to ensure that orphaned children are fully covered under the programme. He instructed departments to carefully collect details of guardians responsible for eligible children.
For cases where no guardian is available, welfare funds will be routed through District Collectors. The government is also planning to establish a permanent system through which financial assistance can be deposited directly into bank accounts of orphaned students. The accumulated amount will remain accessible to beneficiaries after they complete their education.
Wider Access to Educational Resources
In another important decision, the minister instructed officials to make Telugu Academy textbooks available for direct purchase through leading e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and Flipkart. The move is expected to improve accessibility and make learning resources available to a wider student community.
Attendance and Learning Outcomes Under Review
The minister also laid down strict performance targets for schools across the state. He emphasized that student attendance levels should remain above 95 percent and directed officials to closely monitor districts that continue to face educational challenges.
Special attention will be given to Kurnool, Anantapur, Markapuram, Alluri Sitarama Raju, and Polavaram regions. Authorities have been asked to assess teacher availability, address learning gaps among students, and strengthen academic performance indicators. Lokesh further directed officials to ensure the effective and uninterrupted implementation of the Mid-Day Meal programme in all eligible schools.