SHIKSHA Kiran was conceptualized as a mobile literacy initiative and started in 2021 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program works towards bringing the classroom to the doorsteps of students and adults across rural UP given the closure of schools to curb the spread of the highly contagious virus. SHIKSHA Initiative designed special vehicles to cover 36 villages across the three districts of Sitapur, Bulandshahr, Gautam Budhnagar in UP under this program.

The program is designed to help primary school students retain their interest in learning and inspire them to continue their education by enrolling in schools once the pandemic subsides. Curriculum design under this program helps to achieve key learning outcomes including fine motor skills, sensory observation, critical thinking, analyzing, counting concepts, English alphabet and more. Students are taught in specially fabricated classrooms (in open areas, under canopies) via specialized teaching-learning materials (TLM) such as audio-visuals, games and activities using the local (Hindi) language. Enabling the delivery of this are the Shiksha Kiran vehicles, equipped with mass teaching tools such as a large screen and loudspeakers, while lessons are imparted by an instructor and an assistant to small batches ensuring social distancing and hygiene requirements.

For adults, the program is designed to also include life skills and information on innovative agricultural practices such as the farming of medicinal plants, animal husbandry, dairy business and more. Participants are also regularly made aware of the latest government schemes and policies especially designed for rural India.