Overview
- UDF convener Adoor Prakash said on July 30 that Kerala could not withdraw from the MoU on PM SHRI but retracted that position after IUML minister P.K. Kunhalikutty said the front had not decided and the matter awaits a subcommittee report.
- The state has formed a cabinet subcommittee to study PM SHRI and recommend whether to implement the Centre's project or seek alternatives that preserve Kerala's control over school selection and syllabus.
- A reply in Parliament by Union MoS for Education Jayant Chaudhary confirmed Kerala has not enrolled any government schools under PM SHRI and has received only Samagra Shiksha Kerala funds of about ₹99.27 crore.
- Opposition LDF leaders, led by Pinarayi Vijayan, have held protests and accused the UDF of a political U-turn and of undercutting local bodies by cutting and delaying Plan fund releases to LSGIs, which they say is disrupting welfare services.
- The decision carries tangible stakes: implementing PM SHRI would unlock central grants but requires state co‑funding and could raise disputes over curriculum control, and the panel's recommendation will determine whether the UDF secures those funds or legally withdraws from the scheme.