Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday lauded the state's remarkable progress in the Performance Grading Index (PGI) 2.0, released by the Union Ministry of Education. He stated that Himachal has emerged as one of the top performers in quality school education across the country.
Climb in Rankings
According to the report, Himachal Pradesh climbed seven positions from 13th to sixth place nationally. The state has also been placed in the 'Prachesta-2' category. Congratulating teachers, students, and officials of the education department, Sukhu said the achievement reflected the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
Government's Focus on Quality
Sukhu said the Congress government's focus on quality education, teacher training, and strengthening school infrastructure had contributed to the improved ranking. He alleged that the previous BJP government concentrated on opening institutions without adequate staff or budgetary support, whereas the present government was prioritizing educational standards and equal opportunities for students in rural areas.
Reforms Introduced
The CM said several reforms were introduced after the Congress government assumed office, including the introduction of English-medium education from Class 1 in government schools and the establishment of Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding Schools in every assembly constituency. He said teachers were being sent abroad on exposure visits to study international education systems, while meritorious students were also provided overseas educational tours.
Sukhu further said 156 schools were being affiliated with the CBSE curriculum to strengthen the education sector further.
