Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has introduced a bill that provides for recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff in government universities to be conducted through state recruitment commissions.
Introducing the Himachal Pradesh University (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Legislative Assembly, the chief minister said the government has drafted the amendment with an aim to ensure transparency and merit-based selection in university recruitments.
Once the bill is passed, recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff for Himachal Pradesh University (Shimla), Sardar Patel University (Mandi), Atal Medical University (Nerchowk), Technical University (Hamirpur), Agriculture University (Palampur), and University of Horticulture and Forestry (Solan) will be conducted through the State Public Service Commission and the State Staff Selection Commission.
According to the draft amendment, the state government provides funds for all the six government universities established in Himachal Pradesh.
A dedicated fund will be created within the university and any contribution received from the state or Central government, as well as fee collections, will be deposited into this fund.
Previously, the university’s Finance Committee was responsible for overseeing expenses and contributions. Under the new provisions, the state finance secretary will chair the Finance Committee.
Recommendations made by the committee, led by the Finance Secretary, will be implemented through the Executive Council or the Board.
Matters concerning the creation of posts, upgradation, promotion of employees and new recruitments will be handled in accordance with the amended law.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi tabled another amendment bill in the Assembly.
Once passed, the Indian Stamp (Amendment) Bill would provide for an increase in stamp duty applicable to transactions such as availing bank loans, executing wills and agreements, agreements for the sale of goods, leasing out property, and mortgaging property.
It is believed that the state government, in its efforts to mobilise resources, has sought to boost revenue by amending the Stamp Act and raising the duty. PTI
