618 Schools in Himachal to be Closed, Merged, or Downgraded; 1,120 Teachers to be Declared Surplus
Shimla, July 4, 2025: In a major step to rationalize educational infrastructure, the Himachal Pradesh government has approved the closure, merger, or downgrading of 618 schools with low or zero student enrollment.
Key Highlights:
103 schools with zero students will be closed.
443 schools with 10 or fewer students will be merged with nearby schools within 2–5 km.
75 schools will be downgraded based on enrollment.
As a result, 1,120 teachers will become surplus and will be transferred to schools with staff shortages.
Education Minister Rohit Thakur stated that this step will help ensure better utilization of resources and improve education delivery.
Teacher Awards: New Selection Process
50% of the state-level teacher awards will now be based on applications, while the remaining 50% will be chosen by the department. Local panchayats and school management committees will also be able to nominate teachers.
Colleges with Fewer Than 100 Students to be Merged
Colleges with less than 100 students, and 75 in tribal or remote areas, will be considered for merger due to low enrollment trends.
Teachers on Deputation to Return to Schools
Teachers assigned on deputation to other departments or states will be brought back to resume duties at their respective schools.. Notices will be issued soon.
110 DPE Posts to be Filled
The government will also fill 110 vacant posts of DPEs (Physical Education Teachers) in government schools, with a proposal already prepared for the next cabinet meeting.
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