HP Government Considers Launching B.Ed. Course Post-12th Standard to Equip Students for Future Challenges: CM Sukhu.
Shimla:
In a significant announcement, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu revealed that the Himachal Pradesh government is contemplating introducing a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) course immediately after the 12th standard. Speaking at the Annual Prize Distribution Ceremony at St. Bede’s College in Shimla, the Chief Minister emphasized the state’s commitment to preparing students for future challenges. He highlighted that new-age courses, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Storage, have already been introduced to equip youth with essential skills for the future.
The Chief Minister also made a significant announcement of Rs. 5 lakh for the college’s outstanding students, reaffirming the government’s focus on women’s empowerment. He proudly pointed out that Himachal Pradesh had become the first state in India to raise the legal marriage age for girls to 21 years.
Addressing the ongoing issue of drug abuse in the state, CM Sukhu expressed concern over the menace and assured that the state government had launched a vigorous anti-drug campaign. The government is also committed to taking stronger measures in the future to combat this social evil. He reiterated the government’s focus on promoting sports among youth, announcing an increase in prize money for international competitions and improved financial support for players.
In a move to further support athletes, the government has raised the diet allowance for state and national-level competitions. For instance, Under-17 and Under-19 players now receive Rs. 400 for state-level competitions and Rs. 500 for national-level events, while the allowance for Under-14 players has been increased from Rs. 120 to Rs. 250 for state-level competitions, and from Rs. 250 to Rs. 400 for national events. Additionally, players traveling outside the state will be provided with AC three-tier rail fare for distances up to 200 km and economy-class airfare for longer distances.
CM Sukhu also highlighted several reforms in the education and health sectors, stating that the government has initiated significant changes to improve the quality of education and healthcare in Himachal Pradesh. He mentioned that government school students had been sent for exposure visits to Singapore and Cambodia, and teachers had been trained abroad in modern teaching methodologies.
To enhance educational infrastructure, the government is establishing Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding Schools in every assembly constituency, which will focus on academics, personality development, and providing nutritious meals to students. The Chief Minister pointed out that, under the previous government, the state’s education quality had slipped to the 21st position nationally. However, the current government’s reforms have already led to significant improvements.
On the healthcare front, CM Sukhu disclosed that the government had allocated Rs. 1,800 crore to modernize medical colleges and hospitals across the state. He stressed the importance of upgrading outdated medical equipment, which often hampers timely diagnosis and treatment.
Recalling his student days, the Chief Minister shared his connection to St. Bede’s College, which he had visited 40 years ago to participate in a debate competition. He credited his early involvement in student politics, including his election as a Class Representative at Government College, Sanjauli, for setting him on the path to his political career.
Speaking about climate change, CM Sukhu recognized it as one of the greatest challenges of the current era, particularly in the wake of the natural calamities in Himachal Pradesh in 2023, which affected 23,000 families. He reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving the state’s cultural and natural heritage and outlined the vision of transforming Himachal Pradesh into a Green Energy State.
The event also saw the felicitation of meritorious students. St. Bede’s College Principal Sister Molly Abraham welcomed the Chief Minister and presented the annual report, while the students of the college showcased their talent through a cultural performance. MLAs Harish Janartha and Sanjay Awasthi also attended the ceremony.
This marks another step in the government’s ongoing efforts to shape a future-ready generation and strengthen the state’s educational and healthcare infrastructure.
