Punjab’s government has launched the Smart Classroom Project, equipping over 2,261 schools with advanced digital tools, Wi-Fi, and smart boards to enhance learning. With a ₹17,000 crore education budget, the initiative includes 10,000 new classrooms, 20,000 teacher recruitments, and 118 Schools of Eminence, aiming to bridge the digital divide and modernize education across the state.
Punjab Rolls Out Ambitious Smart Classroom Initiative
The Punjab government has embarked on an ambitious journey to revolutionize education through its Smart Classroom Project, a cornerstone of its broader education reform agenda. As of July 2025, over 2,261 government schools across the state have been equipped with smart classrooms featuring interactive digital boards, high-speed Wi-Fi, and advanced teaching aids. This initiative, backed by a hefty ₹17,000 crore education budget, aims to transform traditional chalk-and-talk methods into interactive, technology-driven learning experiences.
The project is part of a larger vision to modernize educational infrastructure and make learning more engaging for students. According to recent updates, the state has already constructed over 10,000 new classrooms and 8,000 boundary walls, while ensuring Wi-Fi connectivity in 17,000 schools. Additionally, more than 10,000 toilets have been built or repaired to improve school facilities. The recruitment of 20,000 teachers further strengthens the system, ensuring that the technological upgrades are complemented by qualified educators trained to leverage these tools effectively.
A key highlight of the initiative is the establishment of 118 Schools of Eminence, designed to serve as model institutions with state-of-the-art facilities. These schools aim to set a benchmark for quality education, offering students access to robotics labs, digital libraries, and AI-assisted learning tools. The state’s focus on digital literacy is evident in its integration of smart labs and digital screens, which enable teachers to deliver lessons through multimedia content, fostering a more interactive and inclusive classroom environment.
However, challenges remain. The Union Ministry of Education recently turned down Punjab’s proposals for additional funding for computer labs and smart classrooms under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, citing the need for revised proposals that align with specific norms. The ministry also flagged issues like teacher vacancies and an adverse pupil-teacher ratio, urging the state to address these gaps to maximize the project’s impact. Despite these hurdles, Punjab’s education department is actively working to refine its proposals and ensure compliance with national standards.
The Smart Classroom Project draws inspiration from successful models in states like Gujarat, which boasts over one lakh smart classrooms. Punjab’s initiative aims to bridge the digital divide, particularly for students from economically weaker sections, by providing access to modern educational tools. Officials report a noticeable increase in student attendance and enrollment in schools equipped with these facilities, signaling early success.
To further enhance the project’s reach, the state has sent over 300 teachers for advanced training in modern pedagogical methods, ensuring they can effectively utilize digital tools. The government is also collaborating with ed-tech companies to integrate platforms like Teachmint, which streamline administrative tasks such as attendance and report generation, allowing teachers to focus on instruction.
This initiative aligns with broader national trends, where states like Uttar Pradesh and Delhi are also investing heavily in smart classrooms. Uttar Pradesh, for instance, has operationalized 1,780 smart classrooms as part of its ₹325 crore digital education push. Punjab’s efforts, however, stand out for their scale and comprehensive approach, combining infrastructure development with teacher training and digital innovation.
The Smart Classroom Project is not without its critics. Some educators argue that the focus on technology must be balanced with investments in foundational skills like reading and critical thinking, especially in rural areas where digital literacy is still nascent. Others emphasize the need for consistent maintenance of digital infrastructure to prevent disruptions in learning.
As Punjab moves forward, the project is poised to redefine the educational landscape, making classrooms more dynamic and future-ready. With ongoing efforts to address logistical and funding challenges, the state is laying a strong foundation for a digitally empowered education system that could serve as a model for others.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, official statements from the Punjab government, and posts found on X. Information regarding budget allocations, infrastructure developments, and project details is sourced from reputable publications like Hindustan Times and The Hindu, as well as real-time updates from X. The data reflects the latest available information as of July 3, 2025, and may be subject to change as new developments emerge.