UP govt rolls out Rs 2,000 crore plan to transform schools with 500+ students into ‘model schools’

Lucknow : In a landmark move to revamp basic education in Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi Adityanath government has approved a record Rs 2,000 crore budget for the redevelopment of primary and upper primary schools. Allocated for Financial Year 2025–26 under Grant Number 71, this one-time investment—channelled through the ‘Major Construction Works’ head—is the largest in the history of the state’s Basic Education Department.

Basic Education Minister Sandeep Singh stated that under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s visionary leadership, the state is moving beyond merely boosting attendance. “Our goal is to enrich the school system structurally, technically, and intellectually. Through innovation, transparency, and dedication, we aim to make Uttar Pradesh a leader in education and ensure quality learning reaches every child,” he said.

The ambitious plan aims to upgrade core infrastructure in government-run schools—ranging from classrooms, toilets, and drinking water facilities to smart classrooms, computer labs, MDM sheds, ramps, and boundary walls. Aligned with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of quality elementary education and a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh, the initiative is expected to significantly improve learning outcomes and enrich the overall student experience—moving beyond mere numbers to meaningful impact.

In a shift from traditional blanket development strategies, this plan emphasizes optimal usage and efficiency. It was observed that schools with fewer students often underutilize their available resources, while those with higher enrolments make better use of even limited infrastructure. Keeping this in mind, schools with 500 or more students will be upgraded and awarded the status of ‘Model Schools’ in the 2025–26 session. These schools will be equipped with smart classrooms, library rooms, multipurpose halls, club rooms, computer and ICT labs, “Learning by Doing” zones, and improved MDM sheds.

Kanchan Verma, Director General (School Education), stated that this strategic shift will boost student enrolment, promote peer learning, enhance active participation, and support experiential learning across schools. She further emphasized that teachers will benefit from structured class timetables, clear task allocations, and stronger co-teaching models.

As per the guidelines issued by the Finance (Income & Expenditure) Section-1, there will be no duplication of work under this scheme. Implementing agencies will be selected as per established rules. The plan will be closely monitored at the state level, with speed, quality, and transparency being the top priorities in execution.

Key highlights at a glance

Total budget – Rs 2,000 crore (under account head 4202)
Primary focus – Upgradation of schools, especially those with 500+ student enrolment
Special Facilities – Smart classrooms, computer labs, multipurpose halls, club rooms, etc.
Objective – To create a quality-driven, inclusive, and technology-enabled educational environment