Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Announces New Educational Initiatives During Visit to Solan.

Shimla:

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited Solan today, where he honored meritorious students from Government Senior Secondary School, Kothi Deora Ghatti. During his visit, the Chief Minister made several key announcements aimed at improving educational facilities and opportunities in the region.

In his address, Sukhu announced the introduction of commerce classes at Government Senior Secondary School, Kothi Deora Ghatti, and pledged to provide sports kits for the school’s Kabaddi players. He also revealed that the government would allocate funds to complete educational institutions where 60 percent of the construction work has been finished, with a goal to complete these projects within two years.

The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting sports by increasing diet allowances for participants in various competitions. The new allowances include Rs. 400 for state-level, Rs. 300 for district-level, and Rs. 240 for block-level events, with Rs. 500 for athletes competing outside the state. Enhanced travel facilities for out-of-state events and the organization of under-14 tournaments at district and state levels were also announced.

Addressing concerns over educational standards, Sukhu noted that Himachal Pradesh had fallen to 18th place in national education rankings. In response, the government has been implementing reforms, including the phased introduction of Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding Schools in rural areas, featuring smart classrooms and sports facilities. The initiative also includes the closure of 99 primary schools with zero enrolment and the merging of schools with fewer than five students.

The Chief Minister shared a personal reflection on his experiences in government schools and stressed the importance of quality education. He also announced that 200 teachers have been sent to Singapore for an exposure visit, with plans to extend this program to students next year.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil praised Sukhu’s focus on underprivileged communities, highlighting the adoption of 6,000 orphaned children as “Children of the State,” and the construction of the Sukh Ashray Complex in Luthan.

The visit was attended by several dignitaries, including Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi, and others.