Centre releases pending Samagra Shiksha funds to Kerala

The Union government has released pending Samagra Shiksha fund of ₹92.41 crore to Kerala.

Of the approved amount of ₹109 crore, another ₹17 crore is expected to be released in a few days.

The funds to reach the government account for the centrally sponsored Samagra Shiksha scheme will be transferred to the Samagra Shiksha Kerala (SSK) account after the SSK sends a request to this effect.

The total amount approved for the Samagra Shiksha scheme for 2025-26 is ₹761 crore, of which ₹456 crore is the Central share.

Kerala had recently signed up for the PM SHRI scheme after the Union government withheld Samagra Shiksha funds to the tune of ₹ 1,158.13 crore.

However, the plan was put on hold due to disagreements within the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). Coalition partner CPI was particularly disturbed that the agreement was signed without any discussion in the Cabinet or at the front.

He remained firm on reviewing or withdrawing the MoU signed with the Union government. Finally, the Cabinet agreed to freeze the scheme and announced that a subcommittee would be established to examine the CPI’s concerns about the scheme. It was also decided to formally notify the Union government of the State’s decision.

However, even after almost a week, Kerala is yet to send a letter in this regard. General Education Minister V. Sivankutty said on Tuesday that the procedures are ongoing and the communication will be sent soon.

The Union government had recently informed the Supreme Court that Samagra Shiksha funds payable to Kerala would be released soon. The court was considering a case regarding the appointment of special educators in the state.

Samagra Shiksha hopes to send out another offer for the second installment soon. However, uncertainty prevails in the release of funds, especially when the State PM sends notification through SHRI.