Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh to Introduce NEP-Aligned Programmes in Colleges from 2026-27
The Himachal Pradesh government has announced a major step toward transforming higher education in the state, with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 set to be implemented in government degree colleges from the 2026-27 academic session.
The Himachal Pradesh government has announced a major step toward transforming higher education in the state, with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 set to be implemented in government degree colleges from the 2026-27 academic session.
State Education Minister Rohit Thakur on Friday directed officials and academic representatives to ensure the smooth rollout of NEP reforms across colleges affiliated with Himachal Pradesh University (Shimla) and Sardar Patel University (Mandi).
The announcement came during a meeting of the state-level task force formed for NEP implementation, where key academic reforms and programme structures were discussed.
New Undergraduate and Integrated Programmes to Start
Under the NEP framework, colleges in the state will gradually introduce a range of new academic programmes designed to offer flexibility and wider career opportunities for students.
The programmes expected to begin from the 2026-27 session include:
- Three-year Undergraduate Programme
- Four-year Undergraduate Programme with Honours
- Four-year Undergraduate Programme with Honours and Research
- Five-year Integrated Bachelor’s-Master’s Programme
According to the minister, the four-year undergraduate programme will initially be introduced in colleges with higher student enrolment before expanding to other institutions.
Semester System to Expand to Undergraduate Courses
The state government is also planning to extend the semester-based academic system to undergraduate courses.
Thakur said the semester system has already been implemented successfully at the postgraduate level, and expanding it to undergraduate programmes will provide greater flexibility, continuous evaluation, and improved academic efficiency.
Faster Examination Results and Modern Evaluation Methods
Another major reform under the NEP implementation will be the introduction of modern evaluation processes.
These will include:
- Technical evaluation methods
- Spot evaluation systems
- Stronger internal assessment mechanisms
The goal is to ensure that university examination results are declared within 30 days, significantly reducing delays and improving transparency in the evaluation process.
389 Teaching Posts to Be Filled Soon
To strengthen the higher education system, the state government has also announced plans to fill 389 teaching positions in colleges.
The recruitment process has already been referred to the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC), and appointments are expected to improve the student-teacher ratio and enhance the overall quality of education.
Internal Ranking System for Colleges
The state is also planning to introduce an internal ranking system for colleges to encourage better academic performance and institutional development.
The ranking system will help institutions measure their progress, improve academic standards, and enhance competitiveness among colleges.
Greater Autonomy for Colleges and Skill-Based Programmes
Education Minister Rohit Thakur also highlighted the importance of institutional autonomy.
The government is considering allowing colleges to:
- Sign MoUs with industry organisations
- Introduce skill-based and career-oriented courses
- Develop programmes aligned with employment opportunities
These initiatives aim to prepare students with practical skills required in modern industries.
Review of Colleges with Low Enrolment
The government will also review colleges with fewer than 75 students enrolled, with plans to rationalise resources and improve academic infrastructure utilization.
Officials believe this step will help ensure better use of educational resources while maintaining quality standards across institutions.
Himachal Emerging as a Leader in Education
Speaking at the meeting, the minister said Himachal Pradesh has achieved significant milestones in the education sector and is gradually emerging as a front-runner among Indian states in educational reforms.
Rakesh Kanwar, Secretary (Education), assured that the government will provide all necessary support to universities and colleges in implementing the new policy effectively.
