Subhash Mahajan
Dalhousie
The 125th Annual Day celebration of Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School, Dalhousie was held with great enthusiasm and grandeur, with Education Minister Rohit Thakur gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Speaking at the event, the Education Minister lauded the institution’s remarkable 125-year legacy, describing it as an inspiring example of excellence in education, discipline, values, and community service. He said the school has made significant contributions to shaping generations of students and continues to uphold high academic standards.
Addressing students, alumni, and parents, Thakur stated that the Himachal Pradesh Government is committed to strengthening the education system by prioritizing quality education. He highlighted that the state has made significant progress in the National Achievement Survey rankings, moving from 21st position in 2021 to fifth position in 2025. He also noted that Himachal Pradesh has achieved the distinction of near-complete literacy with a literacy rate of 99.55 percent.
The Minister said the government is implementing various scholarship schemes to encourage meritorious students. Additionally, opportunities for international educational exposure are being provided to both students and teachers through overseas educational visits.
Highlighting welfare initiatives, he spoke about the Chief Minister Sukh-Aashray Yojana, which aims to provide education, care, and self-reliance opportunities to orphaned and destitute children, helping them build a dignified future.
Encouraging students to pursue excellence, Thakur emphasized that dedication, hard work, and self-confidence are the keys to success. He urged them to dream big, develop their talents, and face challenges with determination. He added that the true purpose of education is not only to acquire knowledge but also to cultivate values and contribute meaningfully to society and nation-building.
Reflecting on the institution’s journey, he noted that Sacred Heart School was established on February 20, 1901, with just five students and has since grown into a premier educational institution with around 950 students. He described this journey as a testament to the school’s vision, commitment, and dedication.
During the ceremony, the Education Minister felicitated students who had excelled in various academic, cultural, and extracurricular fields. He congratulated the school management, teachers, parents, alumni, and students on the successful completion of 125 years and wished them continued success in the future.
Among those present on the occasion were former minister Asha Kumari, senior officers of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, former IAS officer Kiran Chaddha, SDM Anil Bhardwaj, Bharmaur SDM Ajay Kumar Singh, DSP Mayank Sharma, Superintending Engineer (Electricity) Rajiv Thakur, DFO Dr. Kuldeep Jamwal, Deputy Director (Higher Education) Vikas Mahajan, former CMO Dr. Vipin Thakur, Delhi Province Superior Sister Lucy Emmanuel, Diocese of Jalandhar priest Father Jose Sebastian, Principal Sister Molly Cherian, Municipal Council Chairperson Vandana Chaddha, former Chairperson Manoj Chaddha, Dalhousie Public School Chairman Dr. Capt. G.S. Dhillon, parents, and other distinguished guests.
