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2 heritage institutions struggling for existence

The recent visit of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to the historic boys and girls senior secondary schools in Dharamsala has sparked speculation about their potential merger. Once prestigious institutions, their decline has been gradual, attributed to multiple...
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Government Boys Senior Secondary School Dharamsala.
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The recent visit of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to the historic boys and girls senior secondary schools in Dharamsala has sparked speculation about their potential merger. Once prestigious institutions, their decline has been gradual, attributed to multiple factors, including increase in the number of government and private schools in the vicinity and an inability to adapt to changing times.

KC Sharma, a retired IAS officer and expert on Kangra affairs, highlights the historical significance of these schools, which date back to pre-Independence India. He points out that their establishment was rooted in traditional Hindu values, advocating separate institutions for boys and girls.

Government Boys Multipurpose Senior Secondary School, founded in 1926, is approaching its centenary next year. It once boasted high student strength and produced notable alumni in civil and military services. Similarly, the girls’ school, now known as ‘PM SHRI GGSSS’ since 2024, has an enrolment of 354 students. Established as a middle school in 1932, it progressed to a high school in 1946 and a senior secondary school in 1988. Its principal, Mamta Thakur, expressed emotional concerns over the potential merger, advocating the school’s unique identity.

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Many former teachers and students believe these institutions can regain their prominence if nearby schools are merged with them. They argue that both schools possess the necessary infrastructure to become centers of excellence once again.

Kangra district still retains several heritage institutions that function separately for boys and girls in places like Nurpur, Gangath, Indora, Jwalaji, Rehan, Garli, Pragpur, Dehra, Jawalamukhi, Paprola, Palampur and Nagrota. These institutions symbolise the vision of past generations, catering to the conservative societal norms of the time and ensuring a protective environment for girls’ education.

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As discussions continue, opinions remain divided. While some advocate modernisation and merging for better resource utilisation, others stress the importance of preserving their independent identities. The final decision will shape the future of these institutions, influencing education in Dharamsala for years to come.

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