Pangi residents urge govt to reinclude sociology in schools

Residents of Pangi in Chamba district are calling on the Himachal Pradesh Government to reinstate sociology as a subject in the area’s government senior secondary schools (GSSS), after its removal under the state’s rationalisation policy.

Led by the Pangwal Ekta Manch, the community argues that the removal of sociology restricts essential educational opportunities for local students.

Trilok Thakur, spokesperson for Pangwal Ekta Manch, expressed deep concern, stating: “It pains us that sociology, a vital subject, has been abolished in most GSSSs in Pangi without considering the needs of the students.” Schools affected include GSSS Killar, Dharwas, Sach and Purthi, where students are now denied the option to study sociology, limiting their ability to explore this important field.

Sociology, which examines social issues from family dynamics to systemic inequalities, fosters critical thinking and a better understanding of societal complexities.

Arjun Chauhan, a local social worker, noted: “Sociology enables students to engage thoughtfully with social challenges, a valuable skill, especially for our tribal youth.” Currently, only GSSS Sechunala and the Government Degree College in Pangi offer the subject, forcing many students to either forgo it or travel far for classes.

Prem Singh, a concerned parent, highlighted the community’s frustration: “Despite a strong humanities student enrollment in Pangi, sociology is no longer offered in most schools. This exclusion limits our students’ choices.”

The Pangwal Ekta Manch has formally appealed to the Chief Minister, requesting directives to the Secretary of Education, Additional Chief Secretary of Tribal Development, and Director of Higher Education. Their plea seeks the restoration of sociology in key schools and the creation or transfer of teaching posts to support the subject.

For Pangi residents, this issue is about more than academics; it represents a need for educational equity and access to subjects that enhance students’ understanding of societal dynamics. The community hopes for swift government action to restore sociology and support local students in achieving their academic goals.

Subject important for tribal youth

Sociology enables students to engage thoughtfully with social challenges, a valuable skill, especially for our tribal youth. — Arjun Chauhan, social worker