Himachal Pradesh: Minister of Town Planning, Housing, Technical Education, Vocational and Industrial Training Rajesh Dharmani reiterated the state government’s commitment to create better employment and self-employment opportunities for the youth by enhancing their skills through technical education. Presiding over the district-level Republic Day function at Thodo Ground in Solan, he hoisted the national flag, took the salute of an impressive march-past led by Sub-Inspector Vinay and paid tribute to the martyrs at the Kargil Shaheed Smarak. Dharmani stressed the importance of skill upgradation in employment and self-employment. He announced initiatives to train the youth in future-ready technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Drone Technology, Data Science and Robotics.
He highlighted the establishment of ITIs in Nalagarh, Solan and Mahila ITI in Solan district. Additionally, Drone Service Technician course has been started in 11 ITIs across the state, in which 128 students are currently undergoing training. He also mentioned other courses like Fibre to Home Technician at ITI Arki and Maintenance Mechanic in Chemical Plant at ITI Nalagarh. Under Himachal Pradesh Skill Development Project, Rs 81 crore has been invested in upgradation of machinery and equipment in 50 ITIs, one polytechnic and one engineering college, benefiting 6,000 students. A Centre of Excellence for Tourism, Hospitality and Information Technology is being constructed near Waknaghat at an estimated cost of Rs 120 crore. Seven sectoral plans and five special area plans are being finalised for planned development of Solan district.
He said the industrial hub of Solan, Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh area continues to be the largest industrial area of Himachal with 3,704 new industries registered under the present government. During the programme, Dharmani felicitated notable persons for their remarkable contributions. Hrithik Chauhan was honoured for his bravery in saving two girls from a train accident despite losing a leg. They were given prizes of Rs 25,000. Raj Kumar, Principal of Government Senior Secondary School Arki was felicitated for playing a leading role in student participation and cleanliness drive. Mamta Gupta, Principal of Government High School Kanah was felicitated for innovation in teaching, authoring the book Sangharsh se Shikhar tak and building the state’s first science park to facilitate STEM education. The event not only celebrated the spirit of Republic Day but also celebrated the contribution of individuals shaping the state’s future through courage, education and innovation.
