Seven government higher secondary schools in the district are now equipped with improved infrastructure, thanks to the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) assistance scheme implemented by the State government.
“The schools located at Poongudi, Ettarai, Sevalpatty, Valanadu, Moovanur, Sirugambur, and Perumpalayam now have more number of classrooms, new laboratories (for English, science and computer), and toilets. The work is in the final stage, and will soon be inaugurated by the Chief Minister,” said K. Selvakumar, chief educational officer.
According to GO of 2012, orders were issued for administrative and financial sanction by NABARD for creation of infrastructure facilities in 131 government higher secondary schools in several districts. This assistance from NABARD involves a loan component as well as the State government’s share under Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). The loan is sanctioned with interest payable, decided by the Reserve Bank of India.
A total of Rs. 8.72 crore was sanctioned under the NABARD assistance scheme for the seven schools in Tiruchi district in the academic year 2012-13.
In addition, a sum of Rs. 10.41 crore proposed to improve infrastructure in 12 higher secondary schools, has been recommended to NABARD. The proposal has been sent and the sanction is likely to come soon, according to Mr. Selvakumar.
Similarly, in the academic year 2013-14, a total of 11 high schools and higher secondary schools have been recommended for improving infrastructure.
