Himachal approves CBSE curriculum in 100 govt schools from next academic year

The Himachal Pradesh government will bring 100 of its senior secondary schools under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) from the next academic session, marking a significant shift in the state’s education policy.

Officials said the rollout will be phased, beginning with 100 schools. Every assembly constituency will have at least one government institution affiliated with CBSE to ensure equal access for students across the state.

The government believes the move will raise academic standards. “The introduction of the CBSE curriculum will foster healthy competition between schools affiliated with the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education and those under CBSE. It is expected to motivate both students and teachers to perform better academically,” an official said.

Authorities stressed that the CBSE system, being nationally benchmarked, will give Himachali students an advantage in national-level competitive exams and improve their prospects for higher education and careers.

To manage the transition, a separate CBSE sub-cadre will be created. Existing government teachers can opt to join this cadre, while new appointments of principals, teaching, and non-teaching staff will be based on merit.

The recruitment process will weigh academic performance, contributions to co-curricular activities, and other criteria.

The state also plans to introduce performance-linked incentives, both monetary and non-monetary, to motivate teachers and staff in these schools.

The CBSE-affiliated schools will operate as day-boarding institutions and emphasize holistic development.

Along with academics, students will receive nutrition support, sports training, exposure to arts, vocational skills, remedial teaching, counseling, career guidance, mentoring, and coaching.

Additional posts will be created where necessary to strengthen infrastructure and ensure smooth functioning of the new system, the government said.