
In a bid to strengthen its educational initiatives, the Karnataka government has partnered with the British Council to enhance learning opportunities for rural communities. An agreement was signed to provide 500 English-language books to 10 selected Gram Panchayat Arivu Kendras (rural libraries) across 10 districts. These books will be housed in dedicated “British Council Library Corners,” creating spaces where children can explore, learn, and grow.
In addition, all 5,880 Arivu Kendras will gain first-level access to the British Council’s Digital Library. With digital library walls set up in internet zones, people across rural Karnataka will benefit from world-class learning tools and resources.
This collaboration marks a significant step in the state’s commitment to providing free access to books, computers, and internet facilities to over 50 lakh children and adults. The Arivu Kendras, open 8 hours a day including weekends, have become vibrant centers of knowledge and curiosity, thanks to the dedication of librarians who foster learning within communities.
Priyank M. Kharge, Minister of Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Karnataka, shared the update on social media platform LinkedIn with a quote from the great scientist, Albert Einstein: “The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of the library.” He emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating, “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every person in rural Karnataka has access to resources that inspire curiosity, build skills, and unlock new opportunities.”
This collaboration builds upon previous partnerships between the Karnataka government and the British Council, including efforts to upskill teachers and students, improve learning outcomes in physical education, and enhance higher education collaborations.
