Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed authorities to increase funding for government schools in Thane district fourfold, with a larger share of District Planning funds now set to be used for infrastructure improvements and educational technology.
The decision was taken during a pre-cabinet review meeting with education officials on August 24. Under the revised allocation, 20% of the Thane District Planning funds will be earmarked for government schools, compared with the earlier allocation of 5%.
The funds will be used for repairing school buildings, improving and beautifying campuses, upgrading basic facilities and introducing modern educational technology in classrooms.
Zilla Parishad and TMC schools covered
The revised funding provision will benefit schools operated by the Thane Zilla Parishad as well as the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), covering institutions in both urban and rural areas of the district.
The move comes against the backdrop of concerns over the condition of several government schools and gaps in basic infrastructure. Authorities are also seeking to make public schools more attractive to students and parents amid growing preference for private institutions.
Focus on technology in classrooms
Shinde has asked officials to prepare a detailed action plan for implementing the initiative. He stressed that improving physical infrastructure alone would not be sufficient and called for the use of modern technology to create a more engaging learning environment.
“Along with school beautification, the integration of state-of-the-art educational technology is essential to foster enthusiasm for learning among children and ensure high-quality education across all government schools,” Deputy CM Shinde stated while instructing authorities to roll out the initiative.
The announcement follows criticism from civic activists and political groups over the condition of government schools, particularly in rural areas. The increased allocation is expected to support repairs, campus improvements and technology upgrades across eligible schools in Thane district.
Source: The Free Press Journal
