In a significant move to enhance discipline and accountability in government-run schools, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced a mandatory three-time daily attendance system for 150 CBSE-affiliated schools across the state.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu issued the directives following an Education Department review meeting after the Assembly session on Tuesday. Under the new system, attendance will be recorded at three specific points during the school day: morning arrival, lunch break, and final departure .
The initiative aims to ensure that both students and teachers remain present and accountable throughout the official school hours. The government has also linked attendance recording to teacher salaries through the Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) Swift Chat portal, with non-compliance potentially leading to salary deductions.
Dress Code and Staffing Updates
Alongside the attendance overhaul, the government has introduced separate dress codes for teachers and students in these CBSE schools. The teachers' dress code will become mandatory from October 1, 2026. To facilitate compliance, each teacher will receive a one-time special financial assistance of ₹5,000 to purchase the prescribed attire . A decision regarding student uniforms is expected within the coming week.
The state has already appointed approximately 1,200 teachers for these CBSE schools, with more recruitment planned in the coming months.
Infrastructure Investment
The government has allocated an additional ₹80 crore to improve school facilities and strengthen infrastructure for students and teachers in these institutions. The focus is on providing quality education closer to students' homes, particularly for those in rural areas.
Currently, 133 government schools in Himachal Pradesh are being affiliated with the CBSE Board . The Himachal Pradesh Board will conduct examinations for these schools in 2027, with CBSE taking over from 2028 .
Chief Minister Sukhu directed the Education Department to ensure effective implementation of these measures and continue improving school operations and facilities . The steps are part of broader corrective measures to ensure transparency, discipline, and accountability in the state's education system .
