DEHRADUN – Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan conducted a comprehensive review of the Education Department at the Secretariat on Wednesday. During the meeting, he discussed various departmental initiatives in detail and emphasized the importance of aligning with the provisions of the National Education Policy (NEP), particularly regarding the examination pattern. He directed officials to ensure prompt and effective implementation.
Expansion of Bharat Darshan Scheme
Highlighting the importance of experiential learning, the Chief Secretary instructed the department to expand the Bharat Darshan scheme under secondary education. This year, the target is to include 1,000 students, with a goal to increase participation to 5,000 students next year. He also proposed extending the duration of the tour to seven days, including visits to India’s premier science and technology institutions as well as military establishments, to enhance students’ exposure and skill development.
DPR for Cluster Schools and Smart Classes
Mr. Bardhan directed officials to expedite the construction of 559 proposed cluster schools. He mandated that the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for all identified school buildings be prepared and submitted within one month. Instructions were given via phone during the meeting to heads of implementing agencies to meet this deadline.
Additionally, DPRs for smart classrooms and computer labs are also to be completed within the same time frame. The Chief Secretary advised department directors to coordinate closely with District Magistrates and implementing agencies, including conducting district visits and convening district-level committee meetings to resolve logistical issues like transportation fares.
Timeline and Monitoring of Educational Infrastructure Projects
Emphasizing accountability, the Chief Secretary said that strict timelines must be set for each project to prevent delays. He urged regular reviews of progress at the Secretary, Additional Secretary, and Director General levels.
In line with the push for enhanced educational infrastructure, he also called for the DPR of proposed hostel facilities to be completed in a month. He directed the department to establish a dedicated budget head for computer labs and smart classes. Recognizing the importance of accessibility in emergencies, he further instructed that vehicles be provided to residential schools to manage medical and other emergencies effectively.
The review meeting was attended by Secretary Ravinath Raman, Additional Secretary Ranjana Rajguru, and other senior officials.
