Introduction

In a remarkable stride toward educational excellence, Government Senior Secondary (GSS) School, Raja Ka Talab, situated in the Fatehpur subdivision of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, has earned a coveted place under the Prime Minister Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) Yojana. It is the only school from Kangra and among just 19 institutions across the state to be selected in the 7th phase of this ambitious national initiative, as confirmed by the State Education Department.

This recognition not only validates the school’s consistent commitment to quality education but also places it at the forefront of educational transformation envisioned under NEP 2020.

What is the PM SHRI Yojana?

Launched on September 7, 2022, the PM SHRI (Prime Minister Schools for Rising India) Yojana is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at upgrading over 14,500 existing schools to model institutions. These schools will serve as beacons of excellence, showcasing the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. With an estimated direct benefit to over 20 lakh students, the scheme reflects the government’s commitment to revamping school education at scale.

GSS Raja Ka Talab: A Model of Progress

While many government schools in rural India are struggling with declining enrolment, GSS Raja Ka Talab stands as a promising exception. With a growing student population of nearly 600, the school reflects the trust of the local community in public education.

Key Highlights:

• Modern Infrastructure: The school boasts a Wi-Fi-enabled campus, ICT labs, a well-stocked library, and plans to integrate robotics and digital learning tools.
• Holistic Development: Active participation in NCC, NSS, Scouts & Guides, Police Cadet units, and eco clubs fosters all-round development.
• Student Support: Over 100 students currently benefit from various government scholarships, enhancing access and equity.
• Community Involvement: Local stakeholders, including parents and alumni, have welcomed the announcement as a turning point for the region’s educational landscape.

Key Features of PM SHRI Schools

Schools selected under PM SHRI will reflect a futuristic vision for Indian education. Some defining features include:

• Learner-Centric Pedagogy: Emphasis on experiential, inquiry-driven, and discovery-based learning.
• Skill-Based Learning: Establishment of vocational labs, Atal Tinkering Labs, and Smart Classrooms to build 21st-century skills.
• Green and Inclusive Campuses: Focus on environment-friendly practices like water conservation, solar energy, and waste recycling.
• Competency-Based Assessment: Evaluation systems that test the application of knowledge in real-life scenarios.

The Selection Process

Selection of schools under PM SHRI is based on a three-stage challenge mode:

1. MoU Signing: States/UTs sign a memorandum with the Central Government.
2. Eligibility Based on UDISE+ Data: Identification of schools based on performance and infrastructure indicators.
3. Challenge Process: Eligible schools compete based on defined criteria, and final selection is made by an Expert Committee headed by the Education Secretary.

To ensure accountability and sustained excellence, the schools will be assessed regularly using a School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF).

Significance for Kangra and Himachal Pradesh

The inclusion of GSS Raja Ka Talab under PM SHRI marks a significant step forward for rural education in Himachal Pradesh. It showcases how government schools, when empowered with resources and vision, can rival private institutions in quality and innovation.

Moreover, it sends a powerful message to educators, administrators, and communities: public education, if nurtured and modernised, can be the cornerstone of India’s development.

Conclusion

The transformation of GSS School, Raja Ka Talab into a PM SHRI model institution is more than an accolade—it is a commitment to shaping future-ready citizens. As NEP 2020 reforms take root across the country, schools like this will not just reflect policy goals but redefine what is possible in public education.

With holistic growth, modern infrastructure, and community participation, GSS Raja Ka Talab is indeed a rising star in Kangra—a symbol of aspiration, excellence, and hope.