HPU Vice-Chancellor says no to shawls, caps & mementos

In a move aimed at promoting financial prudence and directing university funds toward meaningful causes, Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Vice-Chancellor Prof Mahavir Singh has issued a directive instructing all university departments not to honour him with Himachali shawls, caps or mementos during functions, events and seminars.

A circular to this effect has been issued by the VC, asking all heads of departments to strictly adhere to the instructions.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Prof Singh told The Tribune that presenting such items during university events amounts to a wasteful expenditure. “Instead of honouring the guest with these items, the funds should be utilised for the welfare of students — particularly those from economically weaker sections, students with disabilities and those in need of financial support,” he said.

The VC added that every year, the university spends lakhs of rupees on purchasing shawls, caps and mementos for various functions, seminars and conferences. “This expenditure serves no real purpose and should instead be directed toward initiatives that benefit students and the university community,” he remarked.

Prof Singh said he had personally volunteered to begin this practice as a message against wasteful spending. “I have instructed all departments not to spend money on purchasing shawls, caps or mementos for internal university functions. The idea is to save funds and use them for more productive purposes,” he stated.

However, he clarified that this directive will apply only to internal events and not to external guests, such as invited speakers or dignitaries from outside the university.

To further curb unnecessary expenditure, the university also plans to replace printed invitation cards and greetings with digital versions, reducing costs and promoting eco-friendly practices. “A considerable amount of money is spent on printing cards every year, which can easily be saved through digital alternatives,” the VC added.