Shimla: Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday announced the establishment of Himachal Pradesh’s first science college in Hamirpur at an estimated cost of Rs 100 crore. He said 80 kanals of land had been identified for the project and Rs 20 crore had already been released.Addressing the annual prize distribution function at Government College, Hamirpur, Sukhu also announced the setting up of an allied and healthcare college and an AIIMS-level ayurvedic institute on 74 acres in the district.Describing Hamirpur as the state’s “education capital,” the chief minister said providing quality education remained a top priority of the govt. He claimed Himachal Pradesh’s education ranking had improved from 21st place in 2021 to fifth following reforms introduced by the present government.Sukhu said more than 156 CBSE-affiliated schools had been opened in the state, leading to an increase of around 24,000 students in enrolment.He said the govt was formulating a policy to address the shortage of teachers in higher education institutions and was also considering the rationalisation of colleges. He highlighted steps being taken to ensure transparent and merit-based recruitment.Referring to the 422-MW Kishau hydroelectric project on the Tons river, Sukhu said the state would not proceed with the project unless neighbouring states filed affidavits in the Supreme Court regarding payment of their share of BBMB arrears owed to Himachal Pradesh.
