Drawing inspiration from the Centre’s PM Shri schools and the Delhi government’s CM Shri schools, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in the third
week of January announced plans to launch a new set of premium public schools called ‘MCD Shri’ schools. It comes in line with the MCD's goal of making its education system aspirational, merit-driven, and future-ready. According to an official statement, the rollout will begin with two MCD Shri schools in each MCD zone in the first phase. Admissions to these schools will be focused on meritorious students, with an emphasis on academic potential as well as talent beyond the classroom. The government-run schools across India are increasingly competing with private institutions for credibility, and outcomes. Announcing the initiative, Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh underlined the broader role of education in nation-building. “Education, values and discipline together form the backbone of society,” he said and added that the teachers play a critical role in shaping young minds and instilling the values needed to build responsible citizens. He further said that the MCD Shri schools would focus on identifying and nurturing students’ abilities while also preparing them for higher education. The civic body’s Education Committee Chairman Yogesh Verma said the initiative would place special emphasis on spotting and supporting talent within the MCD school system, which often caters to students from economically weaker backgrounds. “As many as 100 outstanding students from Class five will be selected every year, with their names and achievements in academics, sports or co-curricular activities published on the Corporation's website to help other schools offer them admission,” Verma said. Officials said the public listing of student achievements is aimed at giving deserving children greater visibility and opportunities, allowing them to access better educational pathways across institutions. Alongside academic excellence, Verma added that the MCD continues to focus on improving essential facilities such as mid-day meals, uniforms, and basic infrastructure in its schools. The announcement was made during a Republic Day flag hoisting ceremony at the MCD Primary School in Ashok Vihar Phase 1. The national flag was unfurled by Mayor Singh at the event, which was presided over by area councillor and Education Committee chairman Yogesh Verma.
