Education Minister Rohit Thakur chaired a high-level departmental review meeting on Wednesday to assess the progress of various initiatives in Himachal Pradesh’s education sector. Emphasizing quality education, infrastructure improvement, and sports development, the Minister outlined several key reforms and directives.
He lauded the state’s significant progress in the National Achievement Survey (NAS), noting that Himachal Pradesh jumped from 21st to 5th position nationally. Thakur credited this achievement to effective policy implementation and the dedicated efforts of teachers and officials. To recognize excellence, the government will expand its teacher award program to include college educators starting this September 5.
In a move to strengthen educational infrastructure, the Minister announced the operationalization of 12 new Rajiv Gandhi Model Day Boarding Schools and the upgradation of 56 existing schools. He also instructed officials to carry out on-ground inspections of Atal Adarsh Vidhyalayas and submit detailed reports promptly.
Recruitment updates were a major focus, with the Minister directing the fast-tracking of appointments for 187 differently abled JBTs and 194 Shastri teachers. He emphasized timely hiring of Drawing Masters and rational deployment of staff based on school enrolments. Performance accountability was stressed, including possible disciplinary action against non-performing teachers and schools with zero results.
Thakur called for recognizing teachers in remote areas who make silent but significant contributions, and emphasized the timely distribution of tablets to meritorious students.
Administrative processes, including promotions for Joint Directors, Principals, PGTs, TGTs, and CV teachers, were also reviewed with a directive for expeditious action.
Looking ahead to the next academic session, the Minister announced plans to rationalize colleges and introduce new skill-based, vocational, and academic subjects like Psychology and Sociology in underserved institutions.
In sports, the Minister announced that Himachal Pradesh will host the Under-19 National Level Kabaddi and Handball tournaments. The government will fully sponsor the events and has already enhanced diet and travel allowances, including support for AC and air travel for athletes.
Thakur also reviewed the utilization of departmental funds, stressing the proper use of unspent allocations, especially Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) funds for schools with over 75% damage.
He called for updates to supplementary textbooks to include state history, culture, and local heroes, directing SCERT and (SRGs) to submit proposals for curriculum improvements.
The Minister concluded by expressing confidence in the department’s continued commitment to excellence and making Himachal Pradesh a leader in education.
Senior officials including Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar, Director Higher Education Dr. Amarjeet K Sharma, and Director of School Education Ashish Kohli attended the meeting.
