Skill development varsity in Bilaspur soon: Minister
The Government of Himachal Pradesh will establish a University of Vocational Education and Skill Development near Ghumarwin in Bilaspur, with an investment of over Rs 500 crore. The university will focus on providing vocational and skill development training to the youth, equipping them with job-oriented courses to make them ready for the workforce or entrepreneurship. This was announced by Rajesh Dharmani, the Minister for Vocational Education and Skill Development, during a visit to Sunhani near Ghumarwin on Tuesday.
Dharmani stated that provisions for the university had been included in the state Budget and emphasised that the initiative would not only offer technical training but would also prepare youth for self-employment or entrepreneurial ventures. He expressed optimism that the university would play a significant role in enhancing the employability of the youth in the region.
Addressing the gathering at the district-level Nalwar festival in Sunhani, Dharmani offered prayers at the local Thakurdwara Temple and highlighted the cultural significance of the fair. He noted that the Nalwar festival, which dates back centuries, symbolises the rich cultural heritage and folk traditions of the region. Dharmani also shared that Sunhani had once served as the capital of the erstwhile princely estate of Bilaspur during the Mughal era.
The minister further added that the government has completed all the development works announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for the area. He also revealed that under the SHIVA Project, an amount of Rs 4 crore would be invested to benefit farmers and create employment opportunities for the youth. The project aims to provide necessary infrastructure and support to boost horticulture in the region.
In a bid to enhance the local sports infrastructure, Dharmani announced the construction of a dressing room at the stadium in Sunhani, with an investment of Rs 18 lakh.
Earlier, Gayatri Gautam, president of the Mela Committee, presented a list of local demands, including the construction of public toilets in Sunhani Bazaar and funds for the development of the ground. She also shared the history of the Nalwar festival, which had been discontinued by the rulers of Bilaspur but was revived by her and her team 25 years ago. Gautam stressed that the festival continues to be celebrated with great enthusiasm.
In addition to these announcements, Dharmani pledged Rs 25,000 from his discretionary fund to promote cultural activities in the area.
The event also saw the presence of State Congress general secretary Vivek Kumar, Pramila Basu, Shalu Ranaut, SDM Kunika, and officers from various departments, who all participated in the celebrations and development discussions.
