Youth protests find echo in Minister’s I-Day speech in Shivamogga

Karnataka’s Minister for School Education and Literacy, Madhu Bangarappa, praised the recent protests by youths over the leak of NEET question paper, encouraging them to question the government and society. During his address at an Independence Day event in Shivamogga, the Minister expressed admiration for the youths' voice on issues like employment, education, justice, and their future. He highlighted their mindset of challenging the government and society.

Recalling the struggle and sacrifice of the freedom fighters, Bangarappa called upon the people to work towards realizing the country their elders fought for. He emphasized the current challenges faced by the nation, including poverty, hunger, unemployment, and injustice, and framed it as a new freedom struggle. The Minister announced the government's initiative to form 10,000 Bharat Jodo Yuva Sanghas across Karnataka, with each receiving ₹10 lakh for activities.

He urged the youth to participate in nation-building and announced plans to build 1,000 Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) across the State.

Regarding the education sector, the government has undertaken the construction of 59 KPS in Shivamogga district. The Minister also mentioned the initiation of a process to fill 72,000 vacancies, including 15,000 for teachers. He assured the people of Shivamogga that issues faced by bagair hukum cultivators and those affected by the Sharavati project would be resolved, as the matter is nearing completion.

The programme featured cultural performances and a marchpast, with participation from 29 platoons, including the DAR, KSRP, Civil Police, Home Guards, Forest Department, NCC, and schoolchildren.