Himachal Pradesh Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani chaired a review meeting of the Technical Education Department and the Himachal Pradesh Takniki Shiksha Board Dharamshala, outlining major reforms to strengthen skill-based education and youth entrepreneurship in the state.
₹2 Crore Innovation Fund Announced
During the meeting, the minister announced the launch of a ₹2 crore Innovation Fund aimed at supporting youth-led innovations. The initiative seeks to promote startups and strengthen the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Dharmani said the government is committed to providing industry-oriented, modern, and future-ready skills to young people. He emphasized that Himachal’s youth are full of innovative ideas and energy, and the government is taking concrete steps to channel this potential into productive ventures.
Future-Oriented Technical Education
The minister highlighted that the state is aligning its technical education system with global standards and industry demand. Special focus will be placed on digital skills development to prepare students for emerging technologies and the evolving global job market.
New courses related to horticulture, natural farming, and dairy technology are being introduced in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) to strengthen the rural economy. He also stressed the need to explore innovation opportunities in the biopharma sector.
Strong Industry Linkages and AI Integration
Dharmani directed the Technical Education Board to design market-driven curricula and enhance industry linkages and apprenticeship programs to improve employability.
He announced a special scholarship scheme for girls and stated that hackathons and skill competitions are being organized in government and private technical institutions to showcase young talent.
Additionally, grading of ITIs and polytechnic institutes is underway to ensure quality standards. The minister recommended including success stories of local entrepreneurs in academic curricula to inspire students.
Focus on IT and Grievance Redressal
The minister urged the department to maximize the use of information technology in its operations. AI-related programs will be integrated into technical courses to equip students with advanced skills.
A dedicated grievance portal has also been launched by the board to address student concerns efficiently.
Senior officials, including Special Secretary Sunil Sharma and Director Akshay Sood, were present at the meeting.
The state government expressed confidence that these reforms will enhance employability, encourage entrepreneurship, and position Himachal Pradesh as a hub of skill-driven growth.
