In HP, horticulture vocational course to begin in schools

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh has became the second state in the country to receive "Dual Category" recognition from the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), after Andhra Pradesh. Education minister Rohit Thakur on Saturday made the announcement, stating that the recognition was granted to the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) due to the continuous efforts of the state govt and the board.
With this recognition, HPBOSE was approved as both an awarding body (AB) and an assessment agency (AA). This means the board can now design and conduct vocational training programmes, as well as assess and certify students under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). Certificates issued by the board under this framework will carry NCVET recognition, increasing their credibility and acceptance among industries, employers, and higher education institutions in India and abroad.The education minister said the initiative aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, which promotes the integration of vocational education with mainstream academics. The move is expected to reduce the gap between academic and vocational streams while allowing students to earn skill-based credits that can support higher education opportunities.As part of the new initiative, the state will introduce a specialised vocational course in horticulture in schools. Highlighting its importance, Thakur said Himachal Pradesh, often referred to as the "Fruit Bowl of India," will benefit greatly as students gain practical knowledge in orchard management, post-harvest technology, and organic farming. MSID:: 129215302 413 |Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Women's day wishes, messages and quotes !