Himachal CM Sukhu: 10,000 Teachers Recruited, 4,000 More Coming Soon
CM Sukhu announces 4,000 new teacher appointments in Himachal Pradesh following the recruitment of 10,000 educators.
In a major boost to the state's education sector, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that over 10,000 teachers have been recruited during the current government's tenure. The Chief Minister further revealed that an additional 4,000 teachers are set to be appointed within the next six months to further strengthen the state's academic infrastructure.
Addressing a public gathering at Nogli in the Rampur Assembly constituency of Shimla district on Saturday, Sukhu emphasized that the state government is working tirelessly to bolster education, healthcare, and the rural economy. He highlighted that improving public services and creating opportunities for the people of Himachal Pradesh remain central to his administration's mission.
Transforming Education and Healthcare
A key part of the government's strategy to promote quality education involves the establishment of over 150 CBSE schools across the state. To support these institutions, approximately 2,000 teachers have already been appointed. These schools are designed to ensure that students, particularly those residing in rural areas, have access to high-quality education close to their homes.
Furthermore, the state is developing 300 schools affiliated with the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education as "Schools of Excellence." Sukhu noted a significant leap in educational standards, stating that Himachal Pradesh has climbed from the 21st position in quality education in 2021 to the 5th position under the current government's reforms.
The Chief Minister also underscored the importance of healthcare, stating that the government is equipping all government medical colleges and the AIMSS Chamiyana Hospital with modern technology and advanced machinery, modeled after AIIMS. This includes a phased replacement of equipment that is over 19 years old. To combat doctor shortages, the state has already appointed 500 new doctors.
Economic Reforms and Employee Welfare
Addressing employment and social security, the Chief Minister reaffirmed his government's commitment to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), stating it would remain in place as long as the Congress government is in power. He also mentioned that a policy to safeguard the interests of outsourced employees is being formulated and will be implemented shortly. Additionally, nearly 70 per cent of compassionate appointment cases have already been resolved.
Reflecting on the state's financial situation, Sukhu alleged that the current administration inherited a massive debt of Rs 76,000 crore from the previous BJP government, alongside employee-related liabilities of approximately Rs 10,000 crore. He claimed the previous administration made announcements worth over Rs 5,000 crore in their final six months without adequate provisions for staff or infrastructure.
Boosting Rural Economy and Infrastructure
The Chief Minister highlighted the focus on the rural economy, noting that the increase in milk procurement prices has already boosted the income of livestock farmers. He announced that milk procurement rates will be increased again starting December 1.
On the subject of energy infrastructure, Sukhu discussed the Kishau Multipurpose Project. He stated that the government has secured an agreement that protects Himachal Pradesh's interests, potentially saving between Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore in power generation costs. Once operational, the project is expected to provide the state with an annual revenue of approximately Rs 1,500 crore.