Why is Karnataka CM urging teachers and students to prioritize books over mobiles?

Bengaluru, Sep 5 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized on Friday that education stands as the foremost initiative of his administration, with an annual expenditure of Rs 65,000 crore dedicated to this sector. He urged both students and teachers to set aside mobile devices and embrace reading.

This call to action followed the award ceremony honoring state-level teachers during the Teachers’ Day event at the Banquet Hall in Bengaluru.

Reflecting on his own teachers, CM Siddaramaiah remarked: "I gained knowledge from Rajappa Master and political insights from Prof Nanjundaswamy", expressing his heartfelt appreciation for their guidance.

Addressing the growing reliance on digital devices, he stated: "Children are becoming increasingly dependent on mobile phones. It is crucial for teachers to actively combat this addiction. Thus, the principle of ‘setting aside mobiles and picking up books’ should be embraced in every educational institution and home."

Focusing on the essence of education, he noted: "The goal of meaningful education is to cultivate a mindset that addresses societal issues. Education transcends mere accumulation of knowledge; it aims to spark awareness among children. This is the true purpose and importance of education, and it is the objective of our government."

He also highlighted historical disparities in educational access, saying: "In the past, Shudras were barred from education. The Constitution guarantees the right to compulsory education for all. Since our government assumed office, we have been striving to enlighten citizens about the Preamble of the Constitution. Values like liberty, equality, and fraternity are essential. When adopted, they pave the way for a society of informed citizens. Teachers have a pivotal role in nurturing a civilized society."

“In a world still grappling with caste, transformation is necessary, and a compassionate system must prevail. Clinging to casteism, superstition, and unfounded beliefs despite being educated is a betrayal of education. Therefore, teachers bear the ethical and professional duty to impart education that fosters rational thought, scientific understanding, and respect for diverse beliefs,” he remarked.

“I have encountered professionals from various fields, including doctors, professors, and engineers, who still engage in casteism and superstitions. If this is the education they have received, what is its true value?” he challenged.

“Caste has led to an imbalanced society where opportunities are restricted. Women, alongside Shudras, were historically denied education. Yet today, thanks to the right to education, girls are achieving higher ranks and excelling,” he stated.

CM Siddaramaiah recalled the pioneering efforts of Savitribai Phule and Fatima Sheikh, the first female educators who fought for the education of oppressed women. "They endured humiliation, even having cow dung thrown at them, but persisted in their mission to educate," he shared.

He reflected on his own struggles, saying: "During my time as a student, I often lacked the means to have daily meals. It was to prevent others from facing similar hardships that I initiated the Anna Bhagya scheme."

Honoring former President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, whose birthday is celebrated as Teachers' Day, Siddaramaiah described him as "a teacher of tremendous moral integrity." He asserted that adhering to his principles is the greatest homage we can pay him.

Praising Ministers Madhu Bangarappa and M.C. Sudhakar as "two of the most proactive young ministers in our government", he expressed confidence in their ability to fulfill their duties even more effectively.