Education Minister Rohit Thakur on Tuesday presided over a comprehensive review meeting of the Education Department, issuing firm directions to strengthen sports hostels, expedite recruitment processes and fast-track key academic reforms. Emphasising holistic student development, he said quality education must go hand in hand with encouragement for sports and co-curricular activities.
Strengthening Sports Hostels and Talent Nurturing
Highlighting the crucial role of sports hostels in nurturing young talent, the Education Minister sought a detailed report on challenges faced by these institutions, with special reference to Majra Sports Hostel. He directed officials to improve infrastructure, boarding and lodging facilities, nutritious diet, medical support and transport arrangements. Addressing concerns related to coaches, he stressed the need for continuity and quality guidance to ensure sustained training. Rohit Thakur also lauded Himachal Pradesh sportspersons for bringing laurels to the State at national and international levels.
He further underlined the importance of early identification of sporting talent in schools and colleges and ensuring adequate academic support so that students can balance education and sports effectively. Improved coordination between educational institutions and sports hostels was emphasised to achieve this goal.
Recruitment and Administrative Matters Reviewed
Reviewing recruitment and administrative issues, the Education Minister examined the status of SMC/Computer Teacher LDR and PGTs/DPEs LDR cases. He directed that the LDR be conducted on 22 February after completing all necessary formalities. Proposals related to the recruitment of Assistant Professors were also reviewed, with instructions to expedite the process and forward cases to the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission at the earliest.
School and College Rationalisation
Proposals concerning the merger and consolidation of schools and colleges, including the merger of boys’ and girls’ institutions, were discussed in detail. Rohit Thakur directed that such decisions must strictly prioritise students’ interests, keeping accessibility, safety, academic continuity and learning outcomes in mind. He also instructed officials to ensure timely transport facilities for students affected by mergers or rationalisation.
Academic Reforms and Digital Learning
On academic initiatives, the Education Minister directed the Department to fast-track the introduction of Horticulture and Forestry as optional subjects in schools from the upcoming academic session. Reviewing the status of tablet distribution, he instructed that the remaining devices be distributed at the earliest to strengthen digital learning.
He also reviewed the introduction of four-year B.Ed., BP.Ed. and other professional courses in colleges following notification, directing officials to expedite the process so that these courses become operational from the forthcoming academic session.
NTT Recruitment and Future Planning
Regarding the recruitment of Nursery Teacher Training (NTT) teachers, Rohit Thakur directed that appointment letters be issued immediately to all eligible selected candidates, while remaining vacancies should be filled through alternative and accelerated recruitment mechanisms.
Additional directions included fixing timelines for college rankings, reviewing the status of previous announcements, finalising the date for the meeting of Deputy Directors and ensuring effective implementation of departmental schemes. The Education Minister also instructed the Department to submit detailed proposals for the upcoming Budget Session, focusing on academic infrastructure, sports facilities, student welfare and talent development.
Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar, Project Director Samagra Shiksha Rajesh Sharma, Director Higher Education Amarjit, Director of School Education Ashish Kohli and other senior officers attended the meeting.
