Education Minister Rohit Thakur chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials of the Education Department and the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) to assess the progress of various educational schemes and deliberate on crucial departmental issues.
A major highlight of the meeting was the decision to introduce Horticulture as a vocational subject in schools across the state. The Minister directed HPBOSE to design an appropriate curriculum and submit a detailed proposal within two weeks. Emphasizing the need for curriculum expansion, he also advocated for the revival of key academic subjects like Public Administration in colleges to widen students’ academic choices.
During the meeting, the Minister reviewed the implementation status of flagship initiatives such as Rajiv Gandhi Model Day Boarding Schools and Atal Adarsh Vidyalayas. He instructed officials to accelerate recruitment processes to fill vacancies in schools and colleges, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the education infrastructure and ensuring quality education at all levels.
Addressing teacher-related concerns, the Minister assured that all genuine demands of SMC teachers would be taken up for consideration in the cabinet. He also informed that pending promotions in the department had been processed, and the case for the promotion of Principals had been forwarded to the HPPSC for further action.
Highlighting the role of educators, especially in remote and tribal areas, the Minister called for early completion of NAAC assessments and setting up well-equipped libraries in colleges to enhance learning outcomes.
Expressing concern over the widespread damage to over 500 educational institutions due to recent natural disasters, he noted losses amounting to ₹30 crore. He directed officials to prioritize schools with over 75% damage and ensure that Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) funds are used efficiently, with strict monitoring of restoration works.
In a bid to encourage creativity and civic participation among children, the Minister proposed a plantation drive under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative near disaster-hit areas. He also recommended organizing Bal Melas and science exhibitions for students under 12 to foster curiosity and engagement at an early age.
Sharing insights from his recent meeting with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in Delhi, Thakur said he had sought the early release of ₹180 crore pending under the RUSA scheme and additional central assistance for strengthening the state’s education sector. The Union Minister, he added, had assured full support and lauded Himachal Pradesh for its educational reforms, which have helped the state secure fifth position in PARAKH and NAS assessments.
HPBOSE Chairman Dr. Rajesh highlighted recent reforms undertaken to improve transparency in the evaluation process and enhance education delivery. The meeting was also attended by Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar, Director of Higher Education Dr. Amarjeet K Sharma, Director of School Education Ashish Kohli, Project Director Samagra Shiksha Rajesh Sharma, members of HPBOSE, and other senior officials.
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