Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged Himachal Pradesh University to expand research in green hydrogen, saying the emerging sector holds significant potential for the state’s future clean energy ambitions.
Addressing an event at the university in Shimla on Friday, Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh contributes ecological services valued at nearly ₹90,000 crore to the country and stressed the importance of advancing sustainable energy initiatives, PTI reported.
He said the state government is actively promoting clean and green energy development and pointed to the establishment of Himachal Pradesh’s first Green Hydrogen Project at Nalagarh in Solan district as a key step in that direction.
During the event, the chief minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple infrastructure projects at the university aimed at strengthening academic and digital capabilities.
Among the projects inaugurated was Phase 3 of the university’s multi-faculty building, which includes three academic floors, a Computer-cum-Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Lab and parking facilities. The newly launched CBT Lab has been developed to expand teaching capacity and support digital learning.
Sukhu also laid the foundation stone for a new five-storey academic block with classrooms and parking facilities to be developed at a cost of ₹8.25 crore.
Reviewing ongoing schemes and development plans at the university, he said the projects would support improvements in infrastructure, digital transformation and academic standards.
The chief minister said the state government remains committed to strengthening the university and is providing annual financial assistance of ₹150 crore for its development.
Recalling his connection with the institution as a former student, Sukhu noted that the university has undergone major changes over the years and stressed the importance of preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for future opportunities.
He added that the Computer-cum-CBT Lab would also support students and job aspirants in Shimla by enabling computer-based examinations conducted by the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog, benefiting around 250 youths.
