Cabinet Approves Opening of 85 New Kendriya Vidyalayas and Expansion of One KV
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the opening of 85 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) across India under the Civil/Defence sectors. Additionally, the existing Kendriya Vidyalaya in Shivamogga, Karnataka, will be expanded with two additional sections in all classes. This initiative is a significant step in providing quality education to the children of Central Government employees and others, ensuring consistent standards nationwide.
- Total Funding: ₹5872.08 crore over eight years (2025-2033), including ₹2862.71 crore for infrastructure and ₹3009.37 crore for operational costs.
- Student Beneficiaries: 85 new KVs and the expansion of one existing KV will benefit 82,560 students, providing access to quality education.
- Employment Opportunities: Direct employment for 5,388 individuals and additional indirect jobs through construction and allied services.
Expansion of Shivamogga KV:
The KV in Shivamogga will accommodate additional students by adding two sections per class, catering to the growing demand for quality education among the children of Central Government employees in the region.
Importance of Kendriya Vidyalayas:
- Educational Excellence: Established in 1962, KVs provide uniform, high-standard education across the country, particularly for the wards of Central Government and Defence employees.
- Inclusivity: They cater to children from transferable and non-transferable families, including those from remote and underserved areas.
- PM SHRI Schools: Almost all KVs are designated as PM SHRI schools under the National Education Policy 2020, serving as model institutions with innovative teaching methodologies and up-to-date infrastructure.
As of now, there are 1,256 operational KVs, including three overseas (Moscow, Kathmandu, and Tehran), with a total student strength of approximately 13.56 lakh. The addition of 85 new KVs and the expansion of one will enhance this network significantly.
Beyond education, these schools contribute to local economies by creating direct and indirect employment opportunities. Construction activities will provide jobs for skilled and unskilled laborers, while operational requirements will boost demand for local services.
The new KVs will span several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand, covering diverse regions to ensure equitable access to education.
A Legacy of Excellence:
Kendriya Vidyalayas consistently excel in CBSE board exams and are renowned for their innovative pedagogy. The increasing number of applicants for Class I admissions reflects the trust and popularity of these institutions among parents and students alike.
The approval for opening 85 new Kendriya Vidyalayas and expanding one marks a milestone in India’s commitment to delivering quality education and fostering holistic development among students. This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to building a strong, educated, and inclusive society.