No new private nursing colleges to open in Himachal as govt tweaks policy, all applications put on hold
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The Newz Radar Network
In a significant policy shift, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced that no new private nursing institutes will be established in the state. The existing nursing institutes will be further strengthened instead.
Following the government’s directive, the Health Department has ceased accepting new applications for private nursing institutes. Applications submitted during the previous BJP government’s tenure have been put on hold.
Currently, Himachal Pradesh houses 60 private and two government nursing colleges and schools. Pursuing a nursing course in private institutes costs over Rs 4 lakh, covering hostel, uniform and other expenses. Despite the high fees, thousands of girl students are enrolled in these courses. On the other hand, government colleges offer significantly lower fees, with annual expenses of around Rs 70,000.
The new policy aims to expand opportunities for students to receive training in government institutions. The Health Department is focusing on developing government nursing institutes, emphasising the enhancement of infrastructure in existing nursing schools and colleges. Many private institutes face staff shortage and inadequate laboratory setups, prompting the department to issue notices to these institutions.
3 new government nursing colleges planned
The state government is advancing plans to open three new nursing colleges in Chamba, Hamirpur and Nahan. The estimated cost for developing the infrastructure for these colleges is Rs 10 crore. Presently, the only government nursing college in the state are at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla and one in Mandi.
This move is expected to increase the availability of quality nursing education and training, particularly benefiting girl students who aspire to enter the nursing profession.
