Mumbai: BMC's allocation for education in budget sees significant boost

Representation Pic

The civic body has allotted Rs 3,497.82 crore for education in its 2024-25 budget. It has augmented funds allocated for education by approximately Rs 150 crore compared to last year's estimate of Rs 3,347.13 crore. A majority of the initiatives and schemes have been carried forward from last year, with the civic body just listing changes and upgrades to be carried forward.

With eye on students

Civic boss and administrator I S Chahal said new projects are geared towards elevating the standard of education and offering improved facilities to students. Three types of scholarship schemes have been announced for children of conservancy staff as directed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Discussing the initiatives outlined in the budget, Arundhati Chavan, president of the Parents Teachers Association United Forum, said, "Financial schemes for underprivileged and meritorious students are commendable. But, attention needs to be directed towards out-of-school students as well.

The BMC has been relatively silent on matters concerning classrooms, premises rented to private entities, and schools. While these activities may generate revenue, they may not be entirely appropriate. It is also crucial to address the issue of dropouts, improve teaching quality, and attract more students to civic-run schools."

Budget highlights

New schools in the offing
The civic body plans to establish four new CBSE schools in the upcoming year. They will come up in Shanti Nagar, Natwarlal Parekh compound, Malwani Township and Varsha Nagar.

Astro labs, sports centres
The ongoing construction includes 54 astronomy laboratories and 35 sports centres, with 20 centres currently in progress. E-libraries have been introduced in 25 secondary schools, and an additional 50 primary schools will soon have e-libraries.

Gamified learning
The municipality plans to implement education through games and make necessary adjustments to the 19,401 tablets provided to secondary school students.

Math and Science Centre
A proposed budget of Rs 4.50 crore aims to establish an innovative mathematics and science centre on a pilot basis in 25 primary division schools for municipal school students.

Student Safety
The installation of CCTV cameras in civic school buildings is underway and a budget provision of Rs 8 crore has been made.