Technical Education, Vocational and Industrial Training Minister Rajesh Dharmani who met Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan at New Delhi today, urged to establish an Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Himachal. Discussions were also held on new proposals and pending issues related to skill development and technical education.
Advocating for the establishment of IISER, Sh. Dharmani said that such an endeavour would act as a potent catalyst for propelling India's scientific and technological prowess. He said that Himachal has emerged as a flourishing hub of academia as renowned institutions like, IIT Mandi, IIIT Una, NIT Hamirpur and Central University along with few engineering colleges both in public and private sector, have already established a strong educational foundation, attracting brilliant minds and fostering a collaborative research ecosystem.
The State Government stands firmly committed to this vision and has enough land to establish the IISER's campus, said Sh. Dharmani. With a focus on the Himalayan ecosystem, the IISER's research would contribute to crucial environmental solutions, paving the way for sustainable development practices. He said that the state was eager to collaborate with the central government and all stakeholders to bring this vision to reality.
While discussing the new proposals, Sh. Dharmani said that the State was endeavouring to upgrade the existing or newly established technical and professional Institutions to meet up with the present requirements of industries etc. He requested establishment and operationalization of the International Skill Centre as Himachali Youth was keen to take up overseas job opportunities in health and social care, hospitality, real estate and business services.
A team is required from National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to be stationed at Shimla to facilitate counselling, skill testing and certification aligned with international standards. He also seeks support for grid-connected rooftop solar projects for technical institutions.
He also requested for release of funds under Community Development through Polytechnics (CDTP) Scheme for 2023-24. The Minister apprised that six polytechnics have been selected under this cent percent centrally sponsored scheme and urged for more institutions to be selected under the scheme for 2024-25.
The Minister said that many technical institutions have been selected under the “Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Addition (STRIVE), but due to late receipt of funds, most of the institutions could not spend the same. He urged the timely release of these funds and project extension beyond 31st May 2024.
Under Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) Scheme, the selected Engineering Colleges and Polytechnics in Himachal will be eligible to receive Rs. 10 Crore and Rs. 6 Crore respectively. Sh. Dharmani urged for immediate release of funds under the Scheme. The Union Minister gave a patient hearing and ensured all possible help at the earliest.