Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Unveils Key Initiatives in Education, Sports, and Healthcare at St. Bede’s College Shimla

Government contemplating to introduce B.Ed. course after class 12th: CM

• Preparing students for future challenges is essential: CM

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday outlined a series of progressive initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s education, sports, and healthcare sectors, marking his speech at the Annual Prize Distribution Ceremony of St. Bede’s College in Shimla. His address focused on the state government’s commitment to preparing students for future challenges while emphasizing the importance of youth empowerment, innovative education, and public health reforms.

During his speech, CM Sukhu highlighted the government’s proposal to introduce a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) course immediately after the 12th standard, underscoring the state’s determination to make higher education more accessible and aligned with the evolving needs of the education sector. He also mentioned the introduction of several cutting-edge courses, such as Artificial Intelligence and Data Storage, as part of an effort to equip the youth with future-ready skills that are in high demand in today’s global economy.

The Chief Minister announced a grant of Rs. 5 lakh for the outstanding students of St. Bede’s College and reiterated the state government’s strong commitment to empowering women in Himachal Pradesh. In a move that has drawn attention for its progressive nature, Sukhu further highlighted that Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in India to increase the legal marriage age for women to 21 years, marking a significant step towards women’s empowerment in the region.

Addressing the persistent issue of drug abuse, which has plagued many parts of the state, the Chief Minister voiced his concern and affirmed that the government has initiated an anti-drug campaign. The state is poised to take stronger measures to combat the menace of addiction, particularly among the youth. Sukhu emphasized the government’s role in promoting sports activities as a preventive measure, aiming to redirect young people’s focus towards constructive and healthy outlets. He also elaborated on the government’s enhanced support for athletes, announcing an increase in diet money for players involved in both national and international competitions. The diet allowance for Under-17 and Under-19 players has been raised from Rs. 150 to Rs. 400 for state-level competitions, with national-level players now receiving Rs. 500. The diet money for Under-14 players has also seen a similar hike. Moreover, players traveling for competitions outside the state will benefit from AC three-tier rail fare for distances up to 200 km and economy-class airfare for distances beyond 200 km.

Focusing on educational reforms, Sukhu highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance the state’s educational infrastructure. The introduction of Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding Schools in each assembly constituency is a major step toward ensuring holistic development for students, providing both academic excellence and personality development, along with nutritious meals. The Chief Minister acknowledged that under previous governance, the state’s education system had slipped to the 21st position in India. However, he assured that the current government’s interventions are already leading to significant improvements.

Sukhu also provided insights into the state’s focus on upgrading healthcare services, noting that Rs. 1,800 crore has been allocated to modernize medical colleges and hospitals with advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment. Outdated medical facilities, which have hindered timely diagnoses and treatments, will be replaced with modern infrastructure aimed at improving healthcare delivery across the state.

Reflecting on his own educational journey, CM Sukhu shared a personal anecdote from his student days, recalling his visit to St. Bede’s College 40 years ago to participate in a debate competition. He expressed pride in the college’s continued reputation for excellence. Sukhu also spoke about his early political experiences, which began when he was elected as a Class Representative at Government College, Sanjauli. This experience, he remarked, eventually led him to serve as a Municipal Councilor and later as an MLA, cementing his commitment to public service.

In addition to his focus on education and healthcare, CM Sukhu addressed the pressing issue of climate change, which he described as one of the greatest challenges of the present era. He spoke about the severe natural calamities in Himachal Pradesh in 2023 that affected thousands of families. Reaffirming the government’s vision to make the state a leader in green energy, Sukhu emphasized the need for sustainable practices to preserve Himachal Pradesh’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

At the ceremony, CM Sukhu took the opportunity to honor the meritorious students of St. Bede’s College for their outstanding academic achievements. College Principal Sister Molly Abraham welcomed the Chief Minister to the event, where students also showcased their talents in a cultural program. The event was attended by prominent figures such as MLAs Harish Janartha and Sanjay Awasthi, who also addressed the gathering.

The Chief Minister concluded his speech by stressing that the government will continue to work tirelessly for the welfare and empowerment of the youth in Himachal Pradesh, laying the foundation for a future that embraces education, health, sports, and sustainable development.

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