In a significant move to strengthen the agricultural sector and provide students with career-ready skills, Himachal Pradesh’s Education Minister, Rohit Thakur, announced that horticulture will be introduced as a vocational subject in schools and colleges starting from the next academic session.
Speaking during a meeting with senior officers from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Himachal Pradesh Kaushal Vikas Nigam, Thakur emphasized that horticulture, a key pillar of the state’s economy, will now be part of the curriculum from Classes 9 to 12, as well as at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The aim is to instill scientific knowledge, practical skills, and entrepreneurial abilities in students, aligning them with the state’s agrarian heritage and topographical conditions.
The Minister pointed out that Himachal Pradesh’s economy thrives on the cultivation of apples, mangoes, citrus fruits, and other produce, and the introduction of horticulture as a vocational subject will open doors for employment in fruit cultivation, processing, marketing, and allied industries. “This initiative will prepare students for both higher education and direct employment opportunities, fostering self-reliance,” said Thakur.
Thakur also stressed that the introduction of horticulture at the school level would not only nurture an appreciation for sustainable agriculture but also highlight the potential of horticulture as a profitable and respected career. He called for prompt action from the Education Department to finalize all necessary formalities to introduce the course in the upcoming academic year.
Additionally, Thakur highlighted that with nearly 90% of the state’s population residing in rural areas, it’s essential for children to view horticulture as a modern career path rather than just a livelihood. He also called on the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to ensure that the curriculum caters to Himachal’s unique topographical conditions.
The Minister further stressed the importance of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) training for teachers, to ensure that new technologies are effectively incorporated into the educational process.
Neena Pahuja, Executive Member of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), assured full support from the MSDE to help develop the most suitable modules for the state.
Senior officers from various departments, including Higher Education, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, and School Education, also participated in the meeting, contributing valuable insights. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from Rajesh Sharma, Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, who outlined the plans for the implementation of the horticulture course.
