The CPM (Communist Party of India (Marxist)) believes that despite political differences with the central government, the state must find pragmatic ways to achieve its goals within India’s federal structure. CPM state secretary M V Govindan stated, “CPM is against the PM SHRI project. However, we cannot insist that the stand of the party and the government should be the same.” The CPM leadership dismissed the concerns raised by the CPI and others.
The CPM argues that Kerala already has its own state education project and curriculum, and that the ₹1,446 crore fund attached to PM SHRI “rightfully belongs to us.” They suggest there are other ways to manage the project even if the Central government raises objections.
Supporting the CPM’s stance, a minister commented on the need for pragmatism: “This is a Left Democratic Front government, not a left government.” Given Kerala’s severe financial crisis, they argue the state cannot afford to dismiss Central schemes and funding.
They also highlighted the Congress party’s double standard, pointing out that Congress-ruled states have already signed up for the PM SHRI scheme. A top government official noted the difference between states: “Comparing an economically developed state like Tamil Nadu and Kerala is not proportional. Tamil Nadu can withstand it.” They warned that continued resistance could cause Kerala to lose its entitled share of central funds, citing the state’s previous compliance in renaming Family Health Centres as ‘Ayushman Arogya Mandirs’ under the National Health Mission branding.
Though the issue was not formally on the cabinet agenda on Wednesday, CPI Minister K Rajan voiced his party’s concerns over reviving a proposal that the cabinet had previously postponed twice.
With input from TNIE
For more details: Navamalayalam.com
