Chaklasi, Kheda (Gujarat): A government primary school in Chaklasi village of Nadiad Taluka, Kheda district, has emerged as a remarkable example of how public education can rival—and in many ways surpass—private institutions. The PM SHRI Branch School, recognized as Gujarat’s first solar-powered air-conditioned government primary school, is attracting increasing numbers of students, including many who have transferred from private schools.
Equipped with modern infrastructure, smart classrooms, and renewable energy, the school has become a model for quality education while demonstrating environmental sustainability.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
The school offers facilities that are often associated with premium private schools. Every classroom is fully air-conditioned, providing students with a comfortable learning environment throughout the year.
The campus features:
- Smart Boards and Smart TVs in all classrooms
- Broadband Internet and Wi-Fi connectivity
- CCTV surveillance across the campus
- A fully equipped Computer Laboratory
- A modern Science Laboratory
- A dedicated Sports Room
- A well-stocked Library
- Automatic Bell System
- Musical instruments and sports equipment for extracurricular activities
These facilities enable students to experience technology-driven learning from an early age.
Solar Energy Powers the Entire Campus
One of the school’s most impressive achievements is its 25-kilowatt solar power system, installed with government support. The solar plant supplies enough electricity to operate all classroom air conditioners, laboratories, and campus facilities.
Despite running air conditioners throughout the school day, the institution records zero electricity bills. In fact, surplus electricity generated by the solar plant reportedly earns the school approximately ₹40,000 annually, making it both energy-efficient and financially sustainable.
PM SHRI Scheme Enhances Learning
The school has been selected under the PM SHRI Schools Scheme, a flagship initiative aimed at transforming government schools into centers of excellence.
Under the scheme, the school has received four specialized resource teachers, including:
- Arts & Crafts Teacher
- Computer Teacher
- Sports Teacher
- Music Teacher
These educators help students develop creative, technical, athletic, and artistic skills alongside academic learning.
Activity-Based Education
Teachers emphasize experiential learning instead of relying solely on textbooks. The Science Laboratory allows students to conduct practical experiments that help them better understand scientific concepts.
According to mathematics and science teacher Nimeshkumar Thakkar, students retain knowledge more effectively when they learn through hands-on activities rather than traditional classroom lectures.
Educational information has also been creatively displayed on classroom walls, allowing students to continue learning beyond textbooks.
Strong Cultural and Holistic Development
In addition to academics, the school promotes cultural values and personality development through activities such as:
- Matru-Pitru Poojan (Parents’ Respect Ceremony)
- Tulsi Worship
- Bhagavad Gita Recitation
- Annual Cultural Festival
- Sports competitions
- Music and arts programs
The school has received multiple awards, including District-Level Clean School Awards and medals in district sports competitions.
Growing Demand for Admissions
The school’s reputation has led to a significant increase in enrollment. Student strength has now reached 442, while 15 additional students remain on the waiting list for admission.
Over the past five years, more than 50 students have transferred from private schools to the PM SHRI Branch School, reflecting growing confidence among parents in the quality of government education.
This year alone, 26 students reportedly shifted from private institutions to enroll in the school.
Community Support Drives Growth
The school’s development has been strengthened through active support from local residents, donors, and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) originally from the village.
Community members regularly contribute funds for infrastructure improvements, while one overseas donor reportedly provides US$1,000 every year to support the school’s annual cultural festival.
The collaboration between the government, teachers, donors, and villagers has transformed the institution into a recognized model government school.
Principal Highlights School’s Success
Principal Pratik Patel said the school is Gujarat’s first solar-powered air-conditioned government primary school, offering facilities rarely seen in public education.
He noted that every classroom has air conditioning, internet connectivity, and modern teaching tools, while the PM SHRI Scheme has enabled the appointment of specialist teachers to nurture students’ overall development.
According to Patel, parents increasingly choose the school because they believe it offers better educational opportunities and extracurricular exposure than many nearby private schools.
Parents Notice Remarkable Improvement
Parent Darshan Vaghela shared that he initially enrolled his eldest son in a private school until fifth grade but was dissatisfied with the academic results and extracurricular opportunities.
After learning about the PM SHRI Branch School through social media, he transferred his son there and observed significant improvements in confidence, academic performance, and overall personality development. He has since enrolled his younger child—and encouraged relatives to do the same.
Students Proud of Their School
Student Sheetal expressed pride in studying at Gujarat’s first solar-powered air-conditioned government school. She highlighted the school’s excellent teachers, air-conditioned classrooms, modern science laboratory, and engaging extracurricular activities.
She added that government ministers and Members of Parliament have visited the school, and its annual festival attracts thousands of participants each year.
A New Benchmark for Government Education
The PM SHRI Branch School in Chaklasi demonstrates that government schools can provide world-class infrastructure, technology-enabled learning, renewable energy solutions, and holistic student development.
Its success is not only reshaping public perception of government education in Gujarat but also serving as a replicable model for schools across India seeking to combine quality education, sustainability, and community participation.