In a first-of-its-kind attempt, government officials in Nagamangala taluk of Mandya district have adopted 19 BCM (Backward Community & Minorities) and SC/ST hostels to ensure a hassle-free environment for students.

The officials have undertaken this project in addition to their regular duties.

Officials visit the hostels to check on the facilities and hygiene.

It is said that following these visits there is an improvement in the hostels.

In a few hostels students had to wait for hours for lunch due to the inadequate supply of gas cylinders in several parts of the taluk.

However, this issue was rectified after it was brought to the notice of Tahsildar S M Shivakumar.

This idea was mooted by deputy commissioner B N Krishnaiah and ZP CEO PC Jayanna.

As it was successful in one taluk, the Mandya district administration took steps to launch similar projects in six other taluks, including K R Pet, Maddur, Malavalli, Mandya, Pandavapura and Srirangapatna.

Nodal officer of Nagamangala taluk Shantharaju said the environment of the hostels has changed after its adoption.

Shantharaju, who has adopted an SC/ST Post Metric Hostel, said he has deputed a retired teacher to teach English and is looking for a yoga teacher.

ZP CEO PC Jayanna said there are 120 hostels in the district and they intend to extend the adoption programme.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / Home> States> Karnataka / by Yathiraju – Mysore / November 22nd. 2012