The Union Ministry of Education has withheld the first instalment of ₹573 crore under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) for Tamil Nadu due to the state’s refusal to adopt provisions of the National Education Policy (NEP), including the three-language formula under the PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme.
The Project Approval Board allocated ₹3,586 crore under SSA to Tamil Nadu for the 2024-2025 period, with ₹2,152 crore (60%) as the Centre’s contribution and ₹1,434 crore (40%) from the state. While the first instalment was expected in June, Tamil Nadu is yet to receive any funds, despite sending several letters and reminders to the central government.
The delay could impact the salaries of over 15,000 educators, including Block Resource Teacher Educators (BRTEs), part-time teachers, and special teachers. Additionally, crucial initiatives such as fee reimbursements under the RTE Act, transport for children in remote areas, teacher training, and self-defence programs for girls in classes VI to XII could face disruptions.
“SSA has been operating with the state’s funds for now, but continuing without the Centre’s share will be difficult and could severely impact all SSA activities,” a state official said.
During review meetings held in July in New Delhi, it was highlighted that funds would be released only if Tamil Nadu signs the MoU for PM-SHRI schools, which includes a commitment to NEP guidelines. The state had sent a revised MoU excluding NEP mandates, but it was rejected by the central government.
The NEP provisions in question include the 5+3+3+4 curricular structure and the introduction of vocational education from class VI. Tamil Nadu, which has adhered to a two-language formula for over five decades, remains firm in its stance.
Kerala, West Bengal, Delhi, and Punjab have also yet to sign the MoU for PM-SHRI schools. Critics have condemned the Centre’s move, noting that SSA is a key welfare scheme for children’s education. “It’s distressing that SSA funds are being tied to NEP compliance. This decision could adversely affect millions of underprivileged children,” said former NCERT Director Krishna Kumar.
Education activist P.B. Prince Gajendrababu urged Tamil Nadu MPs to raise the issue in Parliament, stating, “SSA and PM-SHRI are separate schemes with no connection. The Centre’s refusal to release SSA funds based on NEP acceptance is unjustifiable.”
