The school education department received the funds around March this year, but it has not yet been disbursed ahead to ZP administrations
The govt resolution (GR) sanctioning the funds was issued on March 31 this year. Teachers said that if the funds been released on time, the education department could have showcased infrastructure improvements in the selected ZP schools by now, particularly at a time when the condition of several of these schools has come under scrutiny.
In communications to govt, school representatives said the postponement in releasing these funds is holding up urgently needed infrastructure improvements and procurement of educational materials. The delays in releasing the funds has directly affected students who urgently need better facilities, they said. Another such teacher said, “Many ZP schools still need basic infrastructure improvements as well as teaching and learning material.
Of the sanctioned amount, Rs117 crore is meant for construction and infrastructure upgrades, while Rs42 crore has been earmarked for educational materials. The school education department received the funds around the same time, but it has not yet been disbursed ahead to ZP administrations, delaying the start of planned works. The sanctioned amount can make a real difference, but only if work begins on ground. Further delays will postpone benefits for all deserving students.”
A ZP school teacher from Pune district told TOI , “The purpose of the model school scheme is to provide students with better learning facilities and infrastructure. If funds remain stuck for months, schools lose valuable time.
The department should ensure that the money reaches schools before the academic year progresses further.”