Horticulture to be introduced as vocational subject in schools and colleges : Rohit Thakur

Education Minister Rohit Thakur today presided over a meeting with senior officers of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Himachal Pradesh Kaushal Vikas Nigam to align new Horticulture as vocational subject in schools and colleges of the state.

Sh. Thakur said that horticulture was the backbone of Himachal Pradesh’s economy, contributing significantly through apples, mangoes, citrus fruits and other produce. He said that the integration of horticulture course from Classes 9 to 12 and further at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, would encourage children to develop scientific knowledge, practical skills and entrepreneurial aptitude in this vital sector. He said that this initiative would prepare students not only for higher education but also for direct employment and self-employment opportunities in fruit cultivation, processing, marketing and allied industries.

Rohit Thakur directed the Education Department to complete all necessary formalities required by the Ministry at the earliest, so that the course could be introduced from the next academic session. He underlined that starting horticulture early in schools would instill among children an appreciation for sustainable agriculture, environmental balance and the State’s rich agrarian traditions. He said that “With nearly 90 percent of Himachal’s population residing in rural areas, our children must be prepared to see horticulture not merely as a livelihood but as a modern, profitable and respectable career option”.

Shri Thakur said that Himachal Pradesh has always been a frontrunner in education, as reflected in the encouraging results of ASER, PARAKH and NAS surveys. He stressed that the State must show similar commitment in integrating skill-based education with traditional strengths. The inclusion of horticulture would bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application and lay the foundation for a stronger rural economy and also set an example for other States,” he added.

The Minister also urged the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to design a curriculum best suited for Himachal’s unique topographic conditions. He further stressed on the need to impart Artificial Intelligence (AI) training to teachers so that they were well equipped to integrate new technologies in education.

Executive Member of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) under MSDE, Neena Pahuja, assured full cooperation to the State in this regard and highlighted that NCVET would support Himachal in developing the most suitable modules. A detailed presentation on NCVET was also given on the occasion.

Senior officers of the Higher Education Department, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, and School Education Department also shared their valuable suggestions.

  Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, Rajesh Sharma, proposed the vote of thanks and outlined the implementation plans for launching the course.  

Director of Higher Education, Dr. Amarjeet K. Sharma,  Director of School Education Ashish Kohli and other senior officers were present at the meeting.