Himachal to Introduce Moral Science from Class 1

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the state Education Department to introduce moral science from Class 1 to encourage character development and ethical behaviour among students. The directive was issued during a meeting with senior education officials in Shimla on October 21, 2026.

The initiative aims to make school education more holistic by placing greater emphasis on values alongside academic achievement. According to reports, the curriculum is expected to encourage discipline, compassion, respect for elders and a sense of responsibility among children from an early age.

The announcement follows the chief minister's earlier statement that moral education would be incorporated into the school syllabus from the next academic session.

600 JBT Posts to Be Filled for CBSE Schools

Alongside the moral science initiative, Sukhu directed officials to speed up the recruitment and deployment of 600 Junior Basic Teacher (JBT) posts for CBSE schools. He also asked the department to ensure adequate teacher availability in 100 newly established schools.

The chief minister reviewed the implementation of the CBSE curriculum in government schools and emphasised the need for qualified teachers, sufficient administrative staff and a supportive learning environment.

He also instructed officials to assess the requirements for ministerial personnel and Class IV employees in CBSE schools and take appropriate steps according to prescribed norms.

Government Reviews Recruitment of 4,800 Staff

The meeting also covered recruitment under the state's New Scheme Based Recruitment initiative. Sukhu reviewed progress on filling 3,900 teaching posts and 900 non-teaching posts, taking the total number of positions under review to 4,800.

The chief minister stressed that recruitment and administrative decisions should be implemented within stipulated timelines. He also called for effective monitoring and accountability to improve the functioning of government schools.

The measures form part of the state government's broader efforts to strengthen school infrastructure, improve teaching standards and support the overall development of students.

What the Moral Science Initiative Means for Students

The proposed introduction of moral science from Class 1 is intended to expose children to ethical values during their formative years. The initiative places emphasis on character-building, discipline, compassion and respect for others.

However, the detailed syllabus, teaching methodology and implementation guidelines were not specified in the reports reviewed. The final structure and rollout will depend on further decisions by the state Education Department.