Himachal to Establish Digital University of Innovation to Boost Entrepreneurship and Skill Development

Shimla, November 5 | Diary Times News Bureau

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that providing quality technical education to students is among the top priorities of the Himachal Pradesh government. He emphasized that aligning education with market demands is key to improving employability and creating a skilled workforce.

While reviewing the functioning of the Technical Education Department, the Chief Minister expressed concern over several unused buildings. Between 2018 and 2023, seven buildings worth ₹126.45 crore were constructed but remain vacant. He directed officials to prepare an action plan to ensure these assets are put to productive public use, noting that wasteful expenditure in the name of construction was unacceptable.

Sukhu also instructed the department to grade Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and polytechnic colleges based on student enrollment, performance, and available facilities. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the state’s technical education infrastructure and filling vacant posts in these institutions.

The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of introducing new courses that align with emerging employment sectors. He welcomed the start of an M.Tech (EV-Tech) program at the Hydro Engineering College in Bandla, Bilaspur, where 30 students have already been admitted.

Underscoring the government’s focus on promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, Sukhu announced that a Digital University of Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Skill, and Vocational Studies is being planned at Ghumarwin in Bilaspur district. About 258 bighas of land have been identified for the project. He added that the upcoming State Innovation and Startup Policy 2025 will further encourage youth-driven entrepreneurship across Himachal.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the functioning of the Himachal Pradesh Skill Development Corporation and the Himachal Pradesh Board of Technical Education, issuing directions to enhance efficiency and improve implementation.

The meeting was attended by Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, State Coordinator of HP Skill Development Corporation Atul Karotha, Special Secretary (Technical Education) Sunil Sharma, Director (Technical Education) Akshay Sood, and other senior officials.