Agnihotri announces new courses, sports initiatives at Khad College

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri announced today that Government Degree College Khad in Haroli Assembly segment will introduce bachelor’s degree courses in science, physical education and music from the upcoming academic session. Speaking at the college’s annual prize distribution function, Agnihotri also revealed that the college will be named after Pandit Mohan Lal Dutt, a former MLA and respected social activist from the area.

“Pandit Mohan Lal Dutt represented the Gagret-Chintpurni Assembly segment in the 1960s when it was part of Hoshiarpur district in Punjab. He remains revered in the community, and it’s fitting that the college bears his name,” Agnihotri said.

Major announcements

• Bachelor’s degrees in science, physical education and music to begin next academic session
• Institution to be named after Pandit Mohan Lal Dutt, former MLA and community leader
• Rs 8-crore indoor stadium with modern sports equipment to be built near Khad College
• Rs 12 crore allocated for rejuvenating traditional village ponds to recharge water table and increase greenery

Highlighting the educational advancements in Haroli, a rural segment, the Deputy CM said the three degree colleges located in Beetan, Khad and Haroli provide invaluable opportunities for local youth, especially girls, to pursue higher education close to home. “The introduction of science, music and physical education programmes at Khad College will meet the growing demand for these subjects,” he said. Arts and commerce streams are already functional at the college.

Agnihotri also informed that an indoor sports stadium is being built near Khad College at an estimated cost of Rs 8 crore. This facility will include modern sports equipment and amenities. “Khad village is known for its dedication to football and potato farming. The government has already constructed a football stadium with hostel and dining facilities for players, including girls’ teams,” he added.

Addressing agriculturists, Agnihotri assured potato farmers that the government is formulating a system to ensure fair pricing and prevent exploitation by middlemen. “A fool-proof marketing plan for agricultural produce is under development to protect farmers from being coerced at vegetable markets,” he affirmed.

In efforts to preserve natural resources, Agnihotri said Rs 12 crore is being allocated for the restoration of traditional village ponds in Haroli. “These water bodies help recharge the water table and increase greenery. The district administration has been directed to prevent the repurposing of these vital resources,” he emphasised.

Agnihotri also presented awards to students who excelled in academics, sports and co-curricular activities over the past year. College principal Dr Rajinder Kumar Sharma read out the annual report, highlighting the college’s achievements and ongoing projects.