Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday outlined a transformative vision for education in the State, emphasizing the dual goals of developing student potential and nurturing responsible citizenship. The Chief Minister’s remarks, during his address at the annual function of Pinegrove School in Dharampur, Solan, come as the state ramps up its commitment to educational reform, underlined by a 17 percent increase in the education budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year compared to the previous year.
The Chief Minister announced the introduction of English medium education in government schools starting from the first grade, reflecting a modern approach to learning aimed at equipping students for future challenges. Furthermore, Rajiv Gandhi Government Day Boarding Schools are set to be established in every assembly constituency to promote the holistic development of students, ensuring that quality education is accessible to all.
“To make the students sensitive towards environment and water conservation, it has been decided to install rain water harvesting system and grid connected 'Roof Top Plants' in day-boarding schools,” he said.
A pivotal aspect of the government’s initiative is the newly-launched Dr YS Parmar Vidyarthi Rin Yojana, which allocates Rs 200 crore to facilitate advanced educational opportunities for meritorious students from economically-disadvantaged backgrounds. This scheme will particularly benefit those seeking professional courses in institutions abroad, marking a significant step towards educational equity.
To bolster local education, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of 493 libraries at the Gram Panchayat level in the first phase, aiming to provide quality reading material and foster a culture of learning in rural areas. Besides, 850 educational institutions of the state are being developed as excellent educational institutions.
In a bold move to modernize technical education, courses in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, and Drone Training will be introduced, aligning educational offerings with the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.
Employment fairs and campus interviews will further bridge the gap between education and job opportunities, empowering youth to secure employment that matches their skills.
Health and nutrition are also front and center in the state’s educational framework. The Mukhyamantri Bal Poshan Aahar Yojana has been launched to ensure that over 15,181 students receive nutritious meals at school, addressing both health and educational outcomes. Additionally, the Chief Minister revealed that the Chief Minister Sukh Ashray Yojana will cover education and living expenses for 5,000 orphaned children, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusivity and support for the vulnerable.
At the same time, Sukhu praised the tranquil environment of Himachal Pradesh, highlighting its role in fostering a conducive atmosphere for education. He commended the Pinegrove School management for prioritizing the overall development of students, acknowledging their efforts in promoting artistic and athletic talents through exhibitions and performances.
