Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Andhra Pradesh government is to provide free electricity to all government schools across the state. This move is expected to alleviate stress on educators, allowing them to focus on quality teaching and improving academic outcomes.

As part of the government's Super-6 implementation plan, the 'Talli Ki Vandanam' scheme is set to roll out from the 2025-26 academic year. Under this scheme, each student from Grades 1 to 12 will receive financial assistance of Rs.15,000. Additionally, the Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Vidya Mitra Scheme will ensure that 35.69 lakh students in government schools receive free uniforms, shoes, books, and high-quality midday meals under the Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme.

Last year, the previous government allocated Rs.29,909 crore to school education, whereas the new budget sees an increased allocation of Rs.31,805 crore, signaling a strong push toward a result-oriented education system. Plans are also in place to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies into the curriculum to align students with global educational standards.

Ratan Tata Innovation Hub

In a significant move toward fostering higher education, research, and innovation, the government has decided to establish the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub in Amaravati. This hub aims to prepare students for future challenges and connect them with global opportunities. It will also support startups and integrate five zonal centers across the state to enhance skills in emerging technologies. The government has set its sights on bringing Andhra Pradesh universities into the Top 100 global institutions.

The budget earmarks Rs.2,506 crore for higher education and an additional Rs.1,228 crore for skill development and training. The government has also initiated India's first skill census to map industry needs and tailor education accordingly. To strengthen the state's Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 83 skill hubs have already been established, and under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Program, the budget proposes four new industrial training institutions specifically for Backward Classes (BC) students.