States will have to abide by terms of Samagra Shiksha to receive funds: Pradhan

States will have to abide by terms of Samagra Shiksha to receive funds: Pradhan

## Central Government Ties Education Funding to Samagra Shiksha Compliance

**New Delhi:** State governments will be held accountable for adhering to the terms and conditions of the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan to ensure timely disbursement of central funds, according to a recent statement made by the Union Education Minister. The announcement comes amidst growing concerns regarding delays and inconsistencies in the release of central shares to various states under the flagship education program.

The minister’s remarks, delivered in response to inquiries from parliamentary representatives, signal a renewed emphasis on accountability and efficient resource management within the national education framework. While specific details regarding the inquiries were not immediately available, the minister’s response underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that funds allocated under Samagra Shiksha are utilized effectively and in accordance with established guidelines.

Samagra Shiksha, an integrated scheme for school education spanning pre-school to senior secondary levels, aims to improve school effectiveness measured in terms of equal opportunities and equitable learning outcomes. The program encompasses initiatives designed to enhance infrastructure, teacher training, curriculum development, and access to quality education for all children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The central government provides financial assistance to states under Samagra Shiksha, with the funding ratio typically shared between the center and the states. However, the timely release of these funds is often contingent upon states meeting certain prerequisites, including the submission of utilization certificates, adherence to program guidelines, and demonstration of progress towards achieving the program’s objectives.

The Education Minister’s statement suggests that the government is tightening its oversight mechanisms to ensure that states fulfill their obligations under the scheme. This heightened scrutiny is likely driven by concerns that delays in the release of funds can impede the implementation of crucial educational initiatives at the grassroots level, potentially impacting learning outcomes and hindering the overall progress of the education sector.

Sources within the Ministry of Education suggest that compliance issues may stem from various factors, including administrative bottlenecks, lack of coordination between different departments, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation mechanisms at the state level. The government is reportedly working with state governments to address these challenges and streamline the process for accessing central funds.

The renewed focus on compliance is expected to have a significant impact on the implementation of Samagra Shiksha across the country. By holding states accountable for adhering to program guidelines, the government aims to ensure that funds are utilized effectively and efficiently, ultimately contributing to improved educational outcomes for all children. This move is also anticipated to foster greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds allocated to the education sector.

The implications of this policy shift remain to be seen. However, it is clear that the central government is determined to ensure that Samagra Shiksha achieves its intended objectives, and that states are held accountable for their role in the program’s success. Ultimately, the effectiveness of this strategy will depend on the cooperation and commitment of both the central and state governments in working together to improve the quality of education for all.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.