The education department of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has introduced a smart classroom at a GTA-run primary school in Mirik block of Darjeeling district.

“We have taken it up as a pilot project. If it is found that the smart classroom is helping students learn better and encouraging parents to put their children in primary schools run by the GTA, the plan will be replicated in other schools,” said S. Ponnambalam, the district magistrate of Darjeeling.

On May 29, Anit Thapa, the GTA chief executive, inaugurated the smart classroom at Manju Tea Estate Primary School in Soureni of Mirik. The school has 60 students.

“We have provided innovative resources like an android television, a digital screen, six computers, and modern desks. The aim is to improve learning outcomes and bring modern education to the marginalised section of society,” said S.P. Sharma, the chief public relations officer of GTA.

In due course, more such classrooms will be opened in Kalimpong, Kurseong and Darjeeling sub-divisions, he said.

In all, in the GTA area, there are 548 schools in Darjeeling and 298 schools in Kalimpong.