Basic Shiksha Parishad primary schools to become smart schools

Smart primary schools in UP: what happened?

Smart classes so far came to upper primary schools (classes 6 to 8) under Samagra Shiksha. This decision brings them to the lower classes too.

• The Cabinet approved developing council primary schools as smart schools. [UP Cabinet]

How does this link to Samagra Shiksha?

• Under the Centre’s Samagra Shiksha, smart classes and ICT labs are being set up in phases in council upper primary schools (classes 6 to 8), based on high enrolment.
• The new decision extends smart classes to council primary schools.
• If tenders come in below the set rate, more schools can be covered within ₹300 crore.
• The Cabinet authorised the CM to make any future change.

Why does smart primary schools in UP matter?

• Education: Digital teaching from the early grades.
• Equity: Government school children get tools seen in private schools.

What can Prelims ask on smart primary schools in UP?

• About 14,429 council primary schools to become smart schools.
• Sanctioned amount: ₹300 crore.
• Smart class/ICT labs in classes 6 to 8 come under Samagra Shiksha.

How to write about smart primary schools in UP in Mains

Practice question (8 marks, 125 words): Can smart classrooms improve learning in government primary schools of Uttar Pradesh? Discuss.

• The decision.
• Possible gains.
• Needs: teacher training, power, upkeep.
• Conclusion.