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Shimla: The government of Himachal Pradesh is preparing to revise its laptop distribution initiative aimed at school toppers. Under the updated scheme, only students from government schools will qualify for rewards. Instead of directly handing out devices, the government will implement a coupon or voucher system, enabling students to select and purchase their preferred gadgets.

The Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, is expected to launch the new initiative shortly. The Education Department has been tasked with compiling a list of toppers from the last three academic years, as all eligible students will be recognized simultaneously once the program is initiated.

Transition from Laptops to Coupons

Previously, the state government distributed laptops to board toppers through the Himachal Pradesh State Electronics Corporation, but this process has been dormant for the past three years. The new approach replaces direct distribution with a digital coupon system, allowing students to redeem these coupons for tablets or laptops of their choice.

Education Secretary Rakesh Kanwar mentioned that a specialized online portal is being developed to facilitate the new system. He added, “If a student or parent wishes to purchase a more advanced device, they can pay the additional cost.”

Emphasis on Government School Students

Unlike previous years, when toppers from private schools affiliated with the HP Board were included, the revised scheme will focus solely on government school students. Officials believe this change will ensure that benefits reach those in public institutions and enhance digital access for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The government is anticipated to invest several crore rupees into this initiative. Education Directorate officials have been instructed to finalize the list of eligible toppers and complete all necessary procedures before the official launch.

Recognition for All Three Academic Years

The Directorate of Higher Education has been directed to gather the names of toppers from the last three board examinations, as the scheme has been inactive since 2021. Once the list is approved, Chief Minister Sukhu will officially unveil the initiative.

“This time, tablets will not be physically distributed. Instead, students will receive digital coupons that can be used to acquire approved devices,” stated a senior education official.