Govt modifies rules for utilisation of LAD funds for schools

Jul 24, 2020, 04:30 IST

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Mysuru: In what could be a boon for development of state-run schools in the lines of private convent schools, Karnataka government has brought modifications for utilisation of legislators fund for school development.
The commissioner of public instruction issued a circular last week directing all deputy directors of public instruction (DDPIs) to work for all-round development of schools in their respective areas under the school adoption programme by utilising Karnataka Legislators’ Local Area Development Scheme (KLLAD).
The government of Karnataka allocates an annual budget of Rs 2 crore to each legislators to plug infrastructure gaps in their constituency.
The move gains significance as over 90% of the budget for school education in the state is spent on salaries to employees at government primary and high schools leaving little for infrastructure development.
Speaking to TOI, DDPI Dr Panduranga said he has already initiated the process to identify three schools in each block from across the district. One of the schools selected for development will be a Karnataka Public School.
He has directed block education officers to prepare a list of schools in their jurisdiction that can be considered for developmental projects by the end of this month after discussing the same with their local MLAs.
The BEO have also been tasked with determining the required development work, programme of action for all-round development of the school. They will also select specific areas of intervention aimed at improving the educational system of the school, estimate cost of expenditure and other details after discussing with local legislators.
Under the school adoption programme, MLAs select a state-run school and provide funds for specific projects such as revamp of classrooms, playgrounds, libraries, cycle stands etc. The legislators can also choose to initiate programmes for promotion of sports and buy sports equipment, improve health services or drinking water facilities among others, said the official.