Telangana approves ₹27.52 crore for govt junior colleges under Samagra Shiksha
The Directorate of Intermediate Education (DIE), Telangana, has announced a comprehensive plan to strengthen government junior colleges through a range of interventions under the Samagra Shiksha scheme. Samagra Shiksha, a centrally sponsored programme, aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education from pre-primary to senior secondary levels. The latest initiatives focus on improving infrastructure, academic resources, student welfare, skill development, and inclusive education across the state.
As part of the implementation strategy, a one-day orientation programme on Samagra Shiksha Funds and the SNA-SPARSH portal was conducted at the Telangana Board of Intermediate Education (TGBIE) in Hyderabad. The session was attended by District Intermediate Education Officers (DIEOs) and principals of government junior colleges. The objective was to ensure effective utilisation of grants, maintain transparent financial management, and adhere to timelines for implementation.
The department has sanctioned a total of ₹27.52 crore under various heads. This includes ₹2.48 crore as Composite School Grants, aimed at meeting recurring expenses and minor repairs. For vocational education, ₹1.68 crore has been allocated for tools and equipment, enabling students to gain practical skills. Sanitation infrastructure will receive ₹1.9 crore for the construction of toilets in 40 colleges, addressing health and hygiene needs. The largest share, ₹20 crore, has been earmarked for computer rooms in 80 colleges, significantly boosting digital literacy. Sports facilities will receive ₹1.04 crore, while libraries will be strengthened with ₹41.8 lakh. In addition, grants have been provided for Eco Clubs, drug abuse awareness programmes, and support for Children with Special Needs (CWSN), ensuring a holistic and inclusive approach.
The SNA-SPARSH portal serves as a digital platform for financial management, enabling officials to upload utilisation certificates and track expenditure in real time. The orientation programme familiarised participants with its features, ensuring that funds are used promptly and accurately. This digital oversight is expected to reduce delays and prevent misappropriation of resources.
The substantial investment in computer rooms reflects a commitment to bridging the digital divide and preparing students for technology-driven careers. Vocational training, meanwhile, is expected to enhance employability, aligning with the broader goals of the National Education Policy 2020. The funding for sports and libraries aims to promote overall personality development and a culture of reading and physical fitness.
The orientation programme also included expert sessions on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. These sessions emphasised workplace safety, gender sensitivity, and institutional accountability. Officials highlighted the need to create safe, inclusive, and student-centric educational institutions across Telangana. The training is part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with legal provisions and foster a respectful environment for all.
With these measures, the Directorate of Intermediate Education aims to transform government junior colleges into centres of excellence. The focus on infrastructure, digital access, vocational skills, and safety is expected to improve student outcomes and reduce dropout rates. The timely utilisation of funds will be monitored through the SNA-SPARSH portal, ensuring accountability and transparency. As the academic year progresses, stakeholders will be keenly observing the tangible impact of these investments on the ground.
