PM SHRI Scheme Implementation: AI Integration in School Education
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
The Ministry of Education is implementing the PM SHRI scheme with a focus on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into school education as per NEP 2020. Recent initiatives include teacher training programs and digital platforms to equip educators with AI-assisted teaching skills.
Background
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes AI and modern subjects in school curricula. The Ministry has launched several initiatives under the Samagra Shiksha scheme and NISHTHA program to build teacher capacity in AI and digital pedagogy.
Key facts
NEP 2020, para 4.24, calls for integrating modern subjects like AI into school curricula at relevant stages.
Samagra Shiksha supports teacher education, continuous professional development, and strengthening of TEIs (SCERTs, DIETs).
NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads' and Teachers' Holistic Advancement) includes dedicated modules on AI in education, digital pedagogy, and educational technology.
DIKSHA platform has evolved into a robust LMS with over 350 live courses, including ~59 courses on AI and digital learning.
NCERT has conducted AI-related training programs benefiting over 96,000 participants.
CBSE and NCERT offer self-paced online courses on AI.
ICT and digital initiatives under Samagra Shiksha support digital infrastructure, digital boards, virtual classrooms, and emerging technologies in government schools.
Ministry and NCERT regularly organize capacity-building programs, workshops, and webinars on AI, ICT, and AI-enabled teaching-learning practices.
Prelims pointers
- PM SHRI Scheme
- NEP 2020
- Samagra Shiksha
- NISHTHA
- DIKSHA Platform
- NCERT
- CBSE
- SCERT
- DIET
- BRC and CRC
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of AI integration in school education under NEP 2020 and its implementation through schemes like PM SHRI.
- Critically examine the effectiveness of teacher training programs like NISHTHA in equipping educators for AI-assisted teaching.
- Analyze the digital infrastructure initiatives (DIKSHA, ICT) in promoting equitable access to quality education.