Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Technical University, Hamirpur has approved an ambitious and forward-looking annual budget of Rs. 76.07 crore for the financial year 2026–27, setting a new direction in the fields of technical education, research and innovation. The budget was passed after detailed deliberations in a Finance Committee meeting chaired by Vice-Chancellor and Secretary of Technical Education Dr. Abhishek Jain. The budget was also approved by the University’s Board of Directors.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that the university’s goal is not limited to providing traditional education, but also to encourage students to actively participate in innovation, research skills and various co-curricular activities. He emphasized that the budget would play a significant role in promoting both academic empowerment and holistic development of students.
He further stated that special focus would be given to entrepreneurship development programs, industrial exposure and training, enabling students to gain practical knowledge and become self-reliant.
Dr. Abhishek Jain said that the university will soon launch Ph.D. programs, which would be implemented not only on campus but also across affiliated institutions. This initiative will strengthen research culture in the state and elevate the standards of higher education.
He highlighted that the budget reflects a progressive vision that balances education, research, skill development and entrepreneurship and will significantly enhance the technical education landscape of the state.
For the first time, a dedicated budget has been allocated to strengthen research and innovation. The University has earmarked Rs. Three crore for developing modern laboratories, equipment and technical infrastructure, while Rs. One crore has been allocated for books, e-books and research journals, demonstrating the university’s commitment to quality enhancement.
The university will also introduce provisions for awarding honorary Ph.D. degrees to distinguished individuals who have made outstanding contributions in academia, research, industry and society. Additionally, to promote active research supervision, each Ph.D guide will receive an incentive of Rs. 50,000 upon the successful completion of a scholar’s research work.
A comprehensive proposal will be prepared for the smooth implementation of the Ph.D program, covering structure, regulations, eligibility criteria, admission process, research guidelines, evaluation systems and financial provisions.
Keeping students’ holistic development in mind, the budget for sports and cultural activities has been increased from Rs. 25 lakh to Rs. 55 lakh. Moreover, for the first time, special provisions have been made for student clubs, campus placements, soft skills development, industrial training, gender sensitivity and incentives for students and faculty.
An allocation of Rs. Two crore for entrepreneurship development programs and Rs. One crore for industrial exposure and training reflects the university’s shift from preparing students merely for jobs to enabling them to become job creators. Additionally, Rs. 70 lakh has been allocated for student activities and skill development.
