The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Uttar Pradesh): The Yogi government of Uttar Pradesh has unveiled a comprehensive initiative aimed at fostering development within the state’s 100 underdeveloped cities. Central to this initiative is the Aspirational Cities Scheme, under which significant emphasis is being placed on the enhancement of educational infrastructure. According to a press release from the chief minister’s office, the scheme outlines plans for a sweeping transformation of schools and Anganwadi centers situated in these target areas.
In a detailed strategy outlined by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state has earmarked a substantial allocation of over Rs 143 crores towards the refurbishment and establishment of educational institutions. Specifically, the plan includes the upgrade of 913 existing schools, alongside the construction of 25 new Mukhyamantri Abhyudaya Composite Schools within the aspirational urban zones. Moreover, the scheme addresses the need for new facilities for 348 Anganwadi centers, which are currently operating out of rented or makeshift government accommodations.
Financially, the upgradation process for schools in the financial year 2024-25 encompasses various aspects. A sum of Rs 36.89 crores is designated for the addition of classrooms in 389 schools, with each school receiving an allocation of Rs 9.27 lakhs. Further investment includes Rs 22.87 crores for the establishment of smart classes across 913 schools, at a rate of Rs 2.5 lakhs per school. Additionally, a budget of Rs 6.56 crores is allocated for furnishing these smart classes.
The newly proposed Mukhyamantri Abhyudaya Composite Schools, numbering 25, will be developed at a total cost of Rs 35.5 crores, breaking down to Rs 1.42 crores per school. This brings the total expenditure on the school enhancement and establishment to approximately Rs 101.83 crores.
Parallelly, the government’s scheme for Anganwadi centers involves the construction of new buildings for 348 centers, with an estimated expenditure of Rs 12 lakhs per center, culminating in a total outlay of Rs 41.20 crores.
This ambitious project spans 38 districts of Uttar Pradesh, impacting 100 urban bodies identified under the aspirational urban body category. The initiative aims not only to upgrade the physical infrastructure of educational establishments but also to significantly improve the quality of education and care provided to the younger population in these regions, thereby contributing to the broader development objectives of the state.