Punjab's border schools, often located in "zero-line" villages, face unique challenges and opportunities. The central government and the state are working to improve infrastructure and academics in these institutions, but obstacles remain.
Upgrades and Initiatives
Both the Union and the State governments are invested in upgrading school facilities. The Punjab government has allocated significant funds towards improving infrastructure in schools, including those in border areas. In April 2025, the School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, inaugurated infrastructural projects worth ₹4.25 crore in the border districts of Amritsar and Tarn Taran. These projects are part of a broader initiative to transform government schools, with over ₹2,000 crore being spent to modernize facilities and increase the number of teachers.
These upgrades include renovated and new classrooms, toilet blocks, and boundary walls. The aim is to provide a better learning environment for students in these regions. In addition to infrastructure, the government has also focused on deploying additional teachers to border schools. Over 300 new teachers have been assigned to these schools in the past two years.
Challenges
Despite these efforts, border schools in Punjab continue to grapple with several challenges. One significant issue is the geographical barriers. For instance, students in villages along the Indo-Pakistan border, like Kaluwala, face difficulties in reaching school, with some having to travel across the Sutlej River and walk long distances.
Another challenge is funding and project implementation. In 2024, a disagreement between the Punjab government and the central government over the implementation of the PM-Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) project led to the Centre withholding ₹515.55 crore. The state government chose not to implement the PM-SHRI project, citing its own "Schools of Eminence" project. This has resulted in a stand-off, affecting the flow of funds for school education in the state.
Ongoing Efforts
The Union Education Ministry addressed the steps being taken to support schooling in Punjab's border villages in Parliament on Monday. Minister Harjot Singh Bains has been actively involved in addressing the issues faced by these schools. He has conducted surprise inspections, interacted with students to understand their concerns, and directed officials to resolve problems promptly.
The government has also provided grants to schools affected by natural calamities like rain and floods, ensuring they have the necessary resources to recover and continue functioning. These grants range from ₹5,000 to ₹30,000 per school, demonstrating the government's commitment to supporting schools facing such challenges.
Looking Ahead
While significant strides have been made in upgrading infrastructure and increasing teacher deployment, addressing the unique challenges faced by Punjab's border schools requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes overcoming geographical barriers, ensuring consistent funding, and continuous monitoring and improvement of educational facilities. Continued focus and investment in these schools will be crucial in providing quality education and opportunities for students in these border regions.
