Shimla: In a major initiative to strengthen sports culture in government schools and enhance the quality of sports education, 139 physical education teachers from Himachal Pradesh have begun a five-day specialized training programme at the prestigious Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala.
The training programme, being conducted under Samagra Shiksha, aims to equip teachers with modern knowledge of sports science, fitness management, sports psychology, sports nutrition and advanced coaching methodologies. Of the 139 participants in the second batch, 12 are women teachers.
The programme was inaugurated by Sumit Nigalani in the presence of Deputy Director (Academic) Sudhir Kumar Reddy, Academic In-charge Ajay Jhangra and HPD Sports and Nutrition expert Dr. Pooja. Programme coordinator and ADPEO Solan Hem Raj welcomed the dignitaries and participants.
Samagra Shiksha Director Rajesh Sharma described the initiative as a visionary step towards improving sports education in schools. He said training teachers at a premier institute like NIS Patiala would enhance both the quality and effectiveness of sports activities in educational institutions across the state.
Rajesh Sharma expressed confidence that trained teachers would help create a culture of modern sports training and better prepare students for competitions at the state, national and international levels.
Under the state government’s ambitious programme, a total of 650 physical education teachers will receive training at NIS Patiala in a phased manner. The initiative began in April when Education Minister Rohit Thakur flagged off the first batch of 135 teachers from Shimla.
Officials said the programme will help develop need-based training modules and strengthen sports talent development, physical fitness, discipline and competitive spirit among students, giving a major boost to sports culture in Himachal Pradesh.
