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Education Minister Rohit Thakur Reviews School-College Merger Plan in Himachal, Says Decision to Follow Set Parameters
Rohit Thakur emphasizes rationalization based on student numbers, distance, and facilities; responds to Kangana Ranaut’s remarks and addresses vocational teachers’ strike
Shimla, April 11: Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Rohit Thakur held a crucial review meeting with senior education officials on Thursday regarding the proposed rationalization and merger of schools and colleges in the state. The meeting comes just days after Thakur returned from the Ahmedabad Congress session.
Speaking to the media, Thakur said the cabinet has entrusted him and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu with the responsibility of overseeing the merger process. “The decision will be made strictly on the basis of defined parameters,” he said, adding that factors like the distance between institutions, student strength, and available infrastructure will be the primary considerations.
“This step is necessary to strengthen the functioning of the Education Department and ensure optimal resource utilization. However, the final decision will only be taken after thorough discussion with the Chief Minister,” Thakur said.
Response to Kangana Ranaut’s Comments
Reacting to the recent political remarks made by MP Kangana Ranaut, Thakur brushed them off, saying, “This is nothing new. Her statements are not taken seriously.” In a pointed response, he said the onus lies with the BJP for fielding such candidates. “I do not wish to make personal remarks, but questions must be raised on the seriousness of such political statements,” he added.
Vocational Teachers’ Strike Termed Inappropriate
Addressing the ongoing strike by vocational teachers, Thakur termed the protest “inappropriate.” He clarified that these teachers were recruited under the Samagra Shiksha Yojana through companies accredited by the Central Government.
“The government is paying close attention to their concerns. In February, union representatives were even sent on a study tour to 7–8 states to gather insights for policy reforms,” Thakur explained. He insisted that the government has made sincere efforts to address the teachers’ demands and urged for cooperation instead of demonstrations.
With rationalization plans underway and multiple educational issues at the forefront, the Education Department is expected to take further decisive steps in the coming weeks, under the joint leadership of the Education Minister and the Chief Minister.
