The Himachal Pradesh State Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has approved a series of transformative decisions aimed at improving the education system, transport infrastructure, and administrative processes in the state. Among the key decisions, the Cabinet sanctioned the elevation of the Directorate of Elementary Education to the Directorate of School Education, ensuring a streamlined and centralized administration for education from pre-nursery to Class 12. The Directorate of Higher Education will now focus solely on colleges and other institutions of higher learning. This restructuring is part of the government’s broader educational reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and academic administration.
In a significant amendment to the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education, Himachal Rules, 2011, the government has decided to conduct examinations at the end of Class 5 and Class 8. If a student fails to meet the promotion criteria, they will be given an additional opportunity to reappear for the examination within two months of the results being declared. This decision seeks to maintain academic rigor while ensuring that students have a fair chance to progress in their education.
In the transport sector, the Cabinet approved the purchase of 297 Type-I Electric buses and 24 air-conditioned Super Luxury buses for the Himachal Road Transport Corporation. This move aligns with the government’s push for sustainable and efficient public transport to improve commuter convenience and reduce environmental impact. The decision is expected to significantly enhance the state’s transport services, especially in remote and hilly areas.
To recognize excellence in technical education, the Cabinet introduced the Himachal Pradesh Scheme of State Award for Teachers in the Technical Education Department. A total of ten awards will be conferred across six categories, including three awards for Best Teacher at the ITI level, two each for Research Excellence and Innovation Award at the Degree level and Industry Collaboration Award for Polytechnics and ITIs, and one each for Best Teacher at the Polytechnic level, Pharmacy College level, and Engineering College level. The selection criteria will include academic excellence, research and development contributions, community engagement, sponsored research, and collaboration with industry to drive academic innovation.
In a move towards social inclusion, the Cabinet also approved the issuance of bonafide Himachali certificates to abandoned and surrendered children who have been residing in Child Care Institutions in Himachal Pradesh for at least 15 years. This decision will enable such individuals to apply for government jobs and avail various welfare schemes offered by the state government.
Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the purchase of new vehicles to strengthen the monitoring and enforcement mechanisms against illegal mining activities across the state. This initiative is expected to curb unauthorized mining, protect natural resources, and enforce environmental laws more effectively.
To accelerate power sector development, the Cabinet granted a government guarantee in favor of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) for raising a term loan of Rs. 1000 crore. This financial boost will aid in the execution of the Shongtong-Karchham Hydro Power Project, which is crucial for strengthening the state’s energy infrastructure and meeting its growing power demands.
The meeting also witnessed the Cabinet expressing appreciation for Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, who is set to superannuate this month, acknowledging his invaluable services to the state.
