Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently emphasized the importance of education in the state. Speaking at a Teachers’ Day event in Bengaluru, he announced that the government spends around Rs 65,000 crore annually on education. He also urged students and teachers to prioritize learning by putting aside their mobile phones and picking up books.
During the event held at the Bengaluru Banquet Hall, Siddaramaiah praised teachers and shared his own experiences. He fondly remembered his first teacher, Rajappa Master, and his political mentor, Prof Nanjundaswamy, expressing deep gratitude for their guidance.
The Chief Minister pointed out the rising problem of children becoming addicted to mobile phones. He stressed that teachers must work hard to help children break free from this habit, emphasizing the importance of reading and traditional learning. “We must instill the habit of ‘put away mobiles, pick up books’ in every school and home,” he said.
Siddaramaiah highlighted the true purpose of education — to develop a mindset responsive to societal issues. He explained that education isn’t just about memorizing facts but about creating awareness and encouraging rational thinking. “Our goal is to shape responsible citizens who stand for equality, liberty, and fraternity, just like the values enshrined in our Constitution,” he added.
Reflecting on India’s past, he pointed out that historically, certain communities, like the Shudras, were denied access to education. But now, the Constitution guarantees education for all, and the government is actively working to promote it. “Education has empowered girls too,” he noted, citing how more girls are now excelling in academics and securing top ranks.
He paid tribute to pioneering women teachers Savitribai Phule and Fatima Sheikh, who fought against social injustice and taught oppressed women despite facing humiliation and hostility.
Sharing his personal story, Siddaramaiah said he experienced hardship during his student days due to lack of food and resources. That’s why he introduced schemes like Anna Bhagya to help those in need.
The Chief Minister also praised former President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, whose birthday is celebrated as Teachers’ Day. “He was a teacher of profound moral values, and following his teachings is the best way to honor him,” he said.
Finally, Siddaramaiah applauded young ministers Madhu Bangarappa and M.C. Sudhakar, calling them energetic and capable of delivering even better results for the state.
This event reinforced the government’s commitment to education as a means to build a stronger, more equal society—where knowledge, rationality, and compassion lead the way.
