Himachal Pradesh has recently sanctioned three new medical colleges, and two others are in the pipeline. Moreover, the state Government is considering approval of four private universities, a Central university, an IIT, and a host of private nursing institutions. These additional institutions will complement the existing network of engineering and dental colleges, institutions of higher education and a leading IT university.

The figures speak for themselves. The hill state with a population of 65 lakh has struggled to improve rural literacy and has had to focus mainly on primary education; it is now the fastest growing education hub. Large-scale industrialisation in the last five years has brought the state Rs 30,000 crore in investments and sent the ball rolling on higher education. The rampant industrial growth has had a triggering effect on the job sector, especially in the skilled labour market. As a result of this growth, qualified candidates are required to bolster the human resource pool.

To open its doors to private educational institutions, Himachal Pradesh passed a model Private Universities Act two years ago. The present Government’s initiative liberalises clearance norms for newly applying medical colleges and nursing institutions — an area which has remained off-limit to private investment. Rapid expansion in healthcare infrastructure has caused a shortage of doctors and paramedical staff, which has in turn forced the state’s BJP Government to focus on medical education as well as IT, biotechnology and engineering.

What really piqued the state’s interest in private education investment is the fact that there are no environmental side effects and rule-bending involved. “In proposals that we are getting for world-class institutions, no one is asking for concessions or bending of the norm. Instead, a few are prepared to set up their own hospitals and allow the government to decide such conditions as fees and services,” says Principal Health Secretary Deepak Sanan.

... contd.