Education Minister Directs Immediate Repairs of Disaster-Hit Schools and Colleges in Himachal

Shimla, July 17:
Education Minister Rohit Thakur chaired a review meeting today regarding the schools and colleges damaged in the recent disaster in Mandi district. He directed officials to expedite repair and reconstruction work at severely affected institutions to ensure that students’ education continues without disruption. The Minister also announced his plans to visit the disaster-affected areas of Mandi soon.

Thakur informed that a total of 219 schools in Mandi district were damaged due to the disaster, of which 208 were partially affected and 11 were completely destroyed. These institutions are currently operating out of nearby vacant government buildings, Mahila Mandal halls, and community centers.

He instructed officials to carry out the restoration work on a war footing, ensuring that students face minimal inconvenience. He emphasized that alternate buildings used for classes should be easily accessible to students so they don’t have to travel long distances. He further directed all concerned departments to monitor the progress of repair work continuously to maintain quality and ensure timely completion.

The Minister asked for the immediate release of funds allocated under pre-disaster need assessment and instructed the department to utilize these funds appropriately. Priority should be given to repairing institutions that have suffered more than 75% damage, he added.

Thakur also raised concerns over schools and colleges that were constructed in unsuitable locations, including near rivers and streams. He stressed that Deputy Directors would be held responsible for future site selections and must ensure that educational institutions are built in safe areas, away from natural hazards.

He appreciated the tireless efforts of those involved in relief and rehabilitation work during this challenging time.

During the meeting, the Minister also reviewed the progress of various departmental initiatives including Rajiv Gandhi Model Day-Boarding Schools, Atal Adarsh Vidyalayas, and the pending recruitment of teachers. He instructed officials to accelerate the recruitment process. Notably, notices have been issued to 320 teachers and lecturers who failed to deliver satisfactory exam results, and strict action will be taken against them.

At the same time, he acknowledged and praised the dedication of committed educators, particularly those serving in remote and difficult terrains. He also directed officials to complete the NAAC accreditation process for colleges promptly and work towards establishing modern, well-equipped libraries.

Dr. Rukmini Banerji, CEO of Pratham Education Foundation, also attended the meeting and shared valuable insights. She appreciated the efforts of the Education Department, which have helped Himachal Pradesh secure the fifth position in the ASER and PARAKH surveys. She noted that the state’s education reforms and policies are gaining national recognition.

The Education Minister thanked Dr. Banerji for her guidance and continued support in strengthening the education sector and expressed hope for continued collaboration in the future.

Also present at the meeting were Director of Higher Education Dr. Amarjeet Sharma, Director of School Education Ashish Kohli, State Project Director (Samagra Shiksha) Rajesh Sharma, and other senior officials from the department.