More than a month after the academic session began in Himachal Pradesh’s government schools, students in Classes VI to IX are still waiting for their textbooks, causing major disruptions in classroom teaching.
The Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education, Dharamshala, is overseeing the printing and distribution of the books, and officials have said that all materials are expected to reach schools by March 25.
Ashish Kholi, Director of School Education, noted that textbooks are being sent directly to schools, though delays are being reported in some areas. “Some schools have informed us that the books are on the way and will arrive shortly,” he said.
Kholi admitted that many schools did not have textbooks at the start of the academic session on February 12 for winter-closing institutions but assured that no student would be left without the required books.
Parents have raised concerns over the 36-day delay, questioning the administrative preparedness and overall efficiency of the education system. Despite early February directives from the Directorate of School Education to ensure classes start on schedule, teachers and students have struggled in the absence of textbooks.
To address the issue, officials have instructed surprise inspections by Deputy Directors and Block Education Officers. However, reports indicate that several blocks, including Sarahan in Sirmaur district, are still waiting for a significant number of books. Some schools have yet to receive 10–11 textbooks for Classes VI to IX, while others have only partial supplies.
Shimla district is also facing shortages, with crucial books such as Geography for Class VIII and Science for Class IX still unavailable. Teachers say conducting lessons without textbooks has become increasingly difficult, forcing them to rely on improvisation.
The situation is further complicated by the state government’s plan to roll out English-medium instruction in all government schools from 2025, increasing pressure on already stretched teaching staff.
With upcoming weeks likely to involve teachers in non-academic duties such as voter list updates, election-related work, and census activities, classroom learning could face additional disruption.
As the textbook shortage continues, students remain at the center of the impact, with the academic calendar under significant strain.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
