Brittas named 'bridge' for PM-SHRI understanding

Pradhan's intervention reflects ongoing tension surrounding PM-SHRI's implementation in Kerala, where the scheme had been contentious

- HD Bureau

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan asserted in the Rajya Sabha that John Brittas, MP from Kerala, served as the conduit between the Central government and the state over the PM-SHRI initiative.

Pradhan said that after the state agreed and signed a memorandum of understanding, Kerala's Education Minister had personally met him and conveyed full backing to the scheme. He expressed uncertainty over subsequent developments and plainly held the state government responsible for delays in implementation, citing internal disagreements.

The disclosure has rattled the political scene as Brittas, who has a reputation as deal maker in Delhi for the CPM and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, had publicly maintained stiff opposition to the Union government's educational policies and schemes, including PM SHRI.