Andhra Pradesh Launches Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Student Kits
The Andhra Pradesh government has introduced the Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Vidyarthi Mitra Kits scheme in 2025. It aims to provide free school kits to over 35 lakh students from Classes 1 to 10. The initiative seeks to promote equality among students and remove political influence from educational resources.
Background and Significance
The scheme is named after Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President and a renowned philosopher. His birthday, 5 September, is celebrated as Teachers’ Day. Naming the scheme after him reflects a focus on education and values rather than politics. The previous scheme was criticised for political branding, which this government has consciously avoided.
Scope and Coverage
The scheme covers government and aided school students across Andhra Pradesh. More than 35.94 lakh children are beneficiaries. The government allocated Rs 953.71 crore for the project. This includes Rs 778.68 crore from the state and Rs 175.03 crore from the central government. Each kit costs roughly Rs 2,279.
Contents of the Kits
Each kit contains three sets of uniforms in new colours – olive green pants or gowns and light yellow-green striped shirts. It also includes one pair of shoes, two pairs of socks, a belt, and a school bag. Educational materials consist of textbooks, notebooks, and workbooks. Class 6 students receive an Oxford English-English-Telugu dictionary. Class 1 students get pictorial dictionaries. Dictionaries in regional or minority languages like Urdu, Tamil, and Odia are supplied where needed.
Quality Assurance
The Quality Council of India (QCI) partnered with the government to ensure high standards. A three-layer quality check was conducted covering raw materials, final production, and packaging. Only products passing all stages were distributed. ‘Quality Walls’ were set up at mandal stock points to test and display items, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Cost Efficiency and Transparency
The government used an online e-procurement system for transparent tendering. This saved Rs 63.80 crore compared to previous years. The stitching charges for uniforms are borne by the government, with Rs 120 for Classes 1–8 and Rs 240 for Classes 9–10. Uniforms are delivered ready to wear.
Impact on Education and Society
The scheme aims to provide equal opportunities for all students regardless of background. By removing political branding, it promotes a neutral and focused learning environment. The high-quality materials improve the educational experience and boost student confidence. The initiative also supports linguistic diversity by including dictionaries in minority languages.
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