Residents of the remote Pangi Valley in Himachal Pradesh have voiced strong opposition to the state government’s decision to discontinue the Science and Commerce streams at the Government Degree College (GDC) in Killar. They argue that this move represents a significant blow to higher educational opportunities for students in the region, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds.
The decision, which follows a notification issued by the Higher Education Department on June 2, 2026, is part of a restructuring of undergraduate programmes under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. As per a rationalisation plan, GDC Pangi has seen a reduction in the number of subjects offered and the sanctioned faculty strength. Previously, the college provided 15 subjects across Humanities, Science, and Commerce streams with a faculty of 17. Following the rationalisation, only nine subjects remain, and the faculty strength has been reduced to 10.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, members of the Pangwal tribal community have labelled the decision as discriminatory. They contend that it effectively bars students aspiring to pursue careers in fields such as medicine, engineering, research, and finance, which typically require a Science or Commerce educational background. The affected community points out that students in Pangi already face limited options for higher education, and the removal of these streams will force them to either settle for Humanities or seek education outside the valley.
Ajit Rana, a local resident, expressed concern over the implications for students, stating, “Students in Pangi already have limited education opportunities. With the removal of Science and Commerce streams, they will either have to opt for Humanities or migrate outside the valley for higher education.”
Government Degree College Pangi holds critical importance as it is the sole degree college serving the entire tribal valley. This region is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most geographically isolated areas, often becoming inaccessible for several months annually due to heavy snowfall and the closure of high mountain passes. The challenging terrain, coupled with limited transportation connectivity and harsh climatic conditions, makes pursuing education outside the valley both difficult and financially burdensome for many families.
Trilok Thakur, chairman of the Pangwal Ekta Manch, a local community forum, highlighted the financial constraints faced by many families. He noted that sending children to colleges in Chamba or Dharamsala is unaffordable for numerous households. Thakur further warned that the decision would disproportionately affect female students, many of whom may find it impossible to pursue higher education away from their homes due to societal and logistical reasons.
The Pangwal Ekta Manch has formally submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, urging his intervention in the matter. The forum conveyed that the college currently enrols approximately 200 students, a significant number of whom come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. They argue that this decision negatively impacts the educational development of a Scheduled Tribe area.
Thakur also pointed out that similar moves in other tribal regions have been reversed following public protests, and they are seeking comparable relief for GDC Pangi. The community is appealing to the government to reconsider its decision, reinstate the Science and Commerce streams, and address the issue of vacant teaching positions within the institution. They stressed that students in Pangi should not be denied equitable educational opportunities simply because of their geographical isolation.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the community has warned of launching a protest movement if their demands are not met by the authorities. The residents are seeking the restoration of subjects that provide pathways to professional careers and ensure that the youth of the remote Pangi Valley are not left behind in terms of educational advancement.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
