Shimla: In a significant step towards promoting education and fostering a love for reading, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced the establishment of reading rooms in 544 government schools across the state. The initiative, part of the ambitious Padho Himachal campaign, was unveiled in the 2024-25 budget by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. These reading rooms will be open to the general public, creating a shared space for lifelong learning and community engagement in both rural and urban areas.


The Directorate of Higher Education has directed District Deputy Directors to prioritize schools with existing reading room infrastructure for this scheme. As part of the plan, each of the 68 assembly constituencies will have eight selected schools offering reading room facilities. These spaces are designed to cater to diverse groups, providing quiet study zones for youth preparing for competitive exams and a welcoming environment for the elderly to read newspapers and books.


Education officials emphasize that this initiative aims to go beyond school boundaries, integrating the wider community into the education ecosystem. A dedicated committee has been established to oversee the implementation of the scheme, ensuring active public participation. Principals of selected schools have been instructed to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate students, villagers, and youth, tailoring the facilities to meet the diverse needs of their communities.


“This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and community development. By opening school resources to the public, we aim to empower local youth, support educational aspirations, and build a culture of lifelong learning,” stated a senior official from the Education Department.


BI Bureau