Pulwama, March 22, 2025
In a significant step towards enhancing education in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL), Ministry of Education (MoE), has established PM SHRI Schools in New Colony, Pulwama, aimed at benefiting Kashmiri students. This initiative is part of the broader Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme, a centrally-sponsored program launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 5, 2022, to transform over 14,500 schools across India into model educational institutions.
In J&K alone, 277 schools are slated for development under this ambitious scheme, which seeks to strengthen existing schools managed by central, state, and Union Territory governments, as well as local bodies. The PM SHRI Schools in Pulwama and beyond are designed to deliver quality teaching, foster cognitive development, and equip students with 21st-century skills. “The goal is to nurture holistic, well-rounded individuals ready to face future challenges,” an MoE official stated during the announcement.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, a key advocate for educational progress in J&K, hailed the initiative as a game-changer. “The PM SHRI Schools scheme reflects our commitment to providing modern, inclusive education to every child in J&K. These 277 schools will serve as beacons of learning, blending innovation with our rich cultural heritage,” he said at a recent event in Jammu. Sinha emphasized the scheme’s focus on upgrading infrastructure, integrating innovative teaching methods, and ensuring accessibility for students with special needs (CWSN).
The PM SHRI Schools will adopt a forward-thinking approach, incorporating indigenous toys and games for foundational learning, storytelling, and outdoor play to promote holistic development. Special attention is being given to creating an inclusive environment, with provisions for ramps, assistive devices, and tailored support for CWSN, ensuring equal learning opportunities for all. “This is about building not just schools, but futures,” a DSEL spokesperson added.
Launched with a vision to overhaul India’s education landscape, the PM SHRI scheme selects and upgrades existing schools to serve as exemplars of quality education. In Pulwama’s New Colony, the newly established PM SHRI School has already sparked optimism among parents and students. “It’s a chance for our children to learn in a modern setup while staying connected to our roots,” said a local resident.
With the development of these 277 schools across J&K, the region is poised to witness a significant leap in educational standards, aligning with the national goal of creating a robust, future-ready generation. As the scheme rolls out, all eyes are on how it will shape the next chapter of learning in this vibrant Union Territory.
