State PCS - West Bengal (WBCS)

• 18 May 2026

West Bengal Signs MoU for Implementation of PM-SHRI Schools Scheme

Why in News? 

The Government of West Bengal signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre for implementation of the PM-SHRI Schools Scheme aimed at strengthening school education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 

Key Points 

• MoU: West Bengal signed the agreement with the Union Ministry of Education to implement the PM-SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) scheme in the state. 
  • The scheme aims to develop selected government schools into model institutions showcasing the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 
• Focus: The schools under the scheme will promote modern infrastructure, smart classrooms, experiential learning, skill-based education, and holistic development of students. 
• Samagra Shiksha Linkage: The Centre had linked the release of Samagra Shiksha funds with implementation of the PM-SHRI scheme. 
• PM-SHRI:
  • A Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched under the National Education Policy 2020. 
  • Launch Year: 2022.
  • Tenure: The scheme will be implemented for five years, from 2022–23 to 2026–27.

Read More: PM-SHRI, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

PM Modi Receives Sweden’s Highest Civilian Honour

Why in News? 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Sweden’s prestigious “Royal Order of the Polar Star, Commander Grand Cross”, which is regarded as the highest honour awarded to a foreign Head of Government by Sweden.  

Key Points 

• Prestigious Honour: Sweden conferred the “Royal Order of the Polar Star, Commander Grand Cross” upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
  • The honour was conferred during his visit to Sweden, where he held bilateral discussions with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
• Presented By: The honour was conferred by Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden in a special ceremony. 
  • This became the 31st international honour received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from a foreign country.
• Institution of Award: The Royal Order of the Polar Star was instituted in 1748 and is awarded for exceptional public service and contributions towards Swedish interests and international cooperation. 
• India-Sweden Relations: The award reflects the strengthening strategic partnership and growing cooperation between India and Sweden in areas such as trade, innovation, green transition, artificial intelligence, defence, and sustainability. 

Read More: India-Sweden Relation