A proposal seeking large-scale corporate social responsibility (CSR) support to strengthen educational infrastructure in the remote and backward regions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been placed before the Union Government by Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray. The MP has recommended three major initiatives aimed at equipping government schools with technology-driven, innovative, and sustainable learning facilities.
The proposals focus on bridging the digital divide and expanding access to modern education in geographically isolated areas. Highlighting the unique challenges faced by island students, Ray has called for urgent CSR funding to create opportunities for innovation and digital literacy.
The first proposal seeks funding for establishing 50 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) across government schools. The Education Department of the islands suggested the initiative, and UNISED, an ISO 9001:2005-certified organisation registered under NITI Aayog, is set to lead its implementation. ATLs are designed to encourage creativity, computational thinking, design innovation, and hands-on experimentation among students. By setting up 50 such labs, the plan aims to provide island students with access to platforms already available in mainland schools, giving them the skills to compete in science, technology, and innovation.
The second proposal urges support for setting up 100 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Labs in government schools, in collaboration with the Any Care Foundation. The project aligns with the national visions of Digital India, Skill India, and Viksit Bharat 2047, and aims to ensure that students gain digital literacy and 21st-century skills. By introducing structured digital learning facilities in classrooms, the initiative intends to familiarise children with computer-based education, making them better prepared for higher studies and employment opportunities.
The third proposal, addressed to the Ministry of Coal and Mines, recommends CSR support for the JIGYASA Programme, which aims to install 100 solar-powered smart classes with Joyful Learning Resource Labs in government schools. The project, also to be carried out through Any Care Foundation, integrates clean energy solutions with modern learning infrastructure. By using solar power, the programme intends to overcome the challenges of energy scarcity in remote areas while promoting sustainable practices. These smart classes would not only make digital learning accessible but also demonstrate renewable energy in action, inspiring communities towards green energy adoption.
Ray emphasised that these projects collectively represent a significant leap forward in addressing the educational challenges of the islands. He pointed out that isolation, limited infrastructure, and restricted financial resources often prevent students from accessing the same quality of education as their mainland counterparts. The initiatives, if sanctioned, would create modern, technology-driven classrooms capable of shaping a generation ready for national and global opportunities.
The MP has personally approached Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Satish Chandra Dubey to advocate for the proposals. While Puri has been urged to extend CSR support from petroleum and natural gas companies for the ATLs and ICT Labs, Dubey has been requested to mobilise CSR support from coal and mining companies for the solar-powered JIGYASA programme.
Ray stressed that these initiatives, taken together, could transform the educational landscape of the islands by introducing 250 new facilities across government schools. He described the proposals as essential to ensuring that young learners from the islands are not left behind in the digital and technological revolution.
The MP concluded his submission by appealing for early consideration of the projects, underlining their potential to empower children with skills, confidence, and opportunities. If approved, the initiatives are expected to create lasting change by blending technology, sustainability, and innovation in the classroom.
