DIET-Kullu’s veteran honoured for 26 years of remarkable service in shaping teachers and transforming classrooms
Munish Sood
MANDI: In a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh, Chaman Prakash, a distinguished teacher educator at the District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Kullu, was recently honoured with Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Teacher Award by the Jyotiba Phule Education Trust, Bhiwani (Haryana).
The honour recognises his exceptional contribution to teacher development, classroom innovation and educational reform.
The prestigious award was presented at a grand ceremony graced by eminent dignitaries, including Member of Parliament Chaudhary Dharmender Singh; Dr Pawan Sharma, Chairman, Board of School Education, Haryana, and Bal Yogi Mahant Charan Dass Ji Maharaj, who jointly felicitated Chaman Prakash for his outstanding service to education.
Distinguished career in education
With an illustrious career spanning over 26 years, Chaman Prakash has emerged as a visionary teacher educator, deeply committed to improving the quality of education and empowering teachers across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
He has organised more than 1,000 training sessions for teachers both within the state and outside, creating meaningful learning experiences and encouraging innovation in classroom practices.
A PhD holder in Teacher Education from Jamia Millia Islamia, Chaman Prakash has continuously worked towards redefining teacher education. His focus has been on learner-centred pedagogy, reflective teaching practices and creativity-based learning models that make classrooms more engaging and effective.
Nurturing innovation and creativity
Chaman Prakash’s contribution extends far beyond traditional teaching. He has been instrumental in implementing key initiatives under Samagra Shiksha, strengthening academic support systems at the grassroots level, and creating an ecosystem where teachers evolve as facilitators and innovators.
He has also spearheaded several creative education projects such as “Inspiring Creative Minds” and “Viksit Bharat Buildathon”, both aimed at promoting STEM education and fostering curiosity, collaboration and critical thinking among teachers and students alike. His initiatives have motivated thousands of educators to adopt fresh, student-driven approaches to teaching.
Schools as learning organisations
Chaman Prakash’s leadership philosophy revolves around the idea that schools should function as learning organisations. He has been actively mentoring school heads and teacher educators to build collaborative learning environments that promote continuous professional growth. Through his guidance, several schools in Himachal have successfully transitioned into hubs of innovation and reflective learning.
Expressing gratitude upon receiving the award, Chaman Prakash said, “This award is not just a personal achievement but recognition of the collective efforts of all teacher educators and mentors who are shaping the future of education. It inspires us to keep working together for a better, more creative, and inclusive education system.”
Beyond academics, Chaman Prakash has also contributed to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh through his writings. He is the author of three books — Himachal ki Lok Sanskriti and Yog — which are included in the curriculum of Classes 6, 7 and 8 under the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education. These works not only enrich students’ understanding of local traditions and values but also connect them with the state’s cultural roots.
