CM Urges HPU to Lead Research in Green Hydrogen Sector; Inaugurates Infrastructure Projects Worth Over Rs 18 Crore.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today called upon Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) to undertake pioneering research in the green hydrogen sector, highlighting its vast potential to contribute to the state’s sustainable development goals. The Chief Minister made these remarks while inaugurating and laying foundation stones of various infrastructure projects at the university campus in Shimla.
As part of the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Multi Faculty Building Phase-III, constructed at a cost of Rs. 10.09 crore. The newly developed facility comprises three academic floors, a Computer-cum-Computer Based Test (CBT) Laboratory, and a parking facility. He also formally inaugurated the newly established CBT Lab, which is expected to significantly enhance the university’s teaching capacity and support its digital learning initiatives.
In addition, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of a new academic block to be built at an estimated cost of Rs. 8.25 crore. The proposed five-storey building will include parking facilities, modern classrooms, and expanded academic spaces to accommodate the increasing number of students seeking admission to the university.
Reviewing various schemes and development projects of HPU, Sukhu reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening higher education institutions. He stated that the government provides annual financial assistance of Rs. 150 crore to the university for its development and modernization.
“These initiatives will further strengthen the university’s infrastructure, accelerate digital transformation, and promote academic excellence,” he said.
Recalling his own association with HPU as a former student, the Chief Minister noted the remarkable transformation the institution has undergone over the years. He stressed the importance of equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet emerging global challenges and opportunities.
Highlighting the state government’s focus on clean and renewable energy, Sukhu said that Himachal Pradesh’s first Green Hydrogen Project is being established at Nalagarh in Solan district. He urged the university’s academic and research community to actively engage in research related to green hydrogen technology, describing it as a promising sector with immense potential for the state and the country.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the ecological significance of Himachal Pradesh, stating that the state provides ecological services valued at nearly Rs. 90,000 crore to the nation. However, he expressed concern over the anticipated financial impact following the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) under the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission, which could result in an annual loss of Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 10,000 crore for the state.
Despite these fiscal challenges, Sukhu expressed confidence in the government’s ability to address the situation effectively. He emphasized that while the government remains committed to protecting the rights and interests of Himachal Pradesh, it is equally important to ensure optimal utilization of available resources for the state’s overall development.
“The government is implementing several transformative measures aimed at making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and economically sustainable,” he said.
The Chief Minister further highlighted the benefits of the newly established Computer-cum-CBT Lab, stating that it would enable youth from Shimla district to appear for computer-based examinations conducted by the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog at HPU itself. Previously, candidates often had to travel to other districts to take such examinations. The facility is expected to benefit approximately 250 candidates at a time.
Among those present on the occasion were MLAs Harish Janartha, Suresh Kumar, Sanjay Awasthy, and Vivek Sharma, Shimla Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Chairman of the H.P. State Cooperative Bank Ltd. Devender Shyam, HPU Vice-Chancellor Mahavir Singh, along with other dignitaries and university officials.
