Human Resources Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched the Integrated Teachers Training Programme, NISHTHA, National Initiative for School Head’s and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement, in New Delhi today.

The integrated programme aims to build the capacities of around 42 lakh participants covering all teachers and Heads of the school at the elementary level in all government school, faculty members of state councils of Educational Research and Training and other educational departments of all States and Union Territories.

The integrated training will motivate and equip teachers to encourage and foster critical thinking in students, handle diverse situations and act as first level counsellors.

Speaking after inaugurating the programme, the Minister said, teachers hold a pivotal position in the society and help build character in students.

He said, through this initiative, teachers at elementary level will be able to acquire scientific temperament and knowledge of other important educational aspects and transfer it to students. Mr Nishank said, it is high time that the students should be linked to Indian knowledge, culture and science so that they could contribute in the nation building.