The Union government has sanctioned the allocation of funds amounting to ₹897 crore for the State under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan during the 2019-20 academic year.
The projects that were proposed by Samagra Shiksha Keralam in this regard were given the nod by the project approval board (PAB) of the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development.
The State had pushed for a budget with an outlay of ₹1,460 crore. Despite the cut in indicative budget, the allocated funds were much higher than the previous year.
The Centre had fixed a ₹680-crore budget during 2018-19. The increased budget is viewed as recognition for the State’s distinction of coming first for fund utilisation.
During the PAB meeting, the State’s representatives voiced concern over the Centre’ failure in meeting its share of 60% of the entire budgetary outlay during the last year.
The allocations include those for special projects envisaged for the pre-school, primary, secondary and higher secondary levels. Enhanced allocation has also be made for setting-up disabled-friendly facilities at schools. A project to establish solar energy units in 100 government schools at a cost of ₹3.5 lakh each has been approved.
Coaching for girls
An amount of ₹12 crore has been sanctioned for enhanced coaching for girl students. Besides, hostels will be constructed for students in tribal areas in Kannur, Pathanamthitta and Idukki.