'Gandhi Bhavan can be made model edu institution'

The University of Mysore Registrar (Evaluation) J Somasekhar said that the Gandhi Bhavan can be developed as a model educational institution.

He was speaking during the observation of Sarvodaya Day, to mark the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, at the Gandhi Bhavan of the Centre for Gandhian Studies, University of Mysore here on Tuesday. "Since the inception of the centre, on the premises of Manasagangothri, its development has not been satisfactory. From the initial course of diploma in Gandhian Studies, courses have been increased up to the post-graduate degree level. Now, there is scope for development. The museum, in a replica of the Sabarmati Ashram of Ahmedabad, is a good addition to the centre. Similarly, a separate library for research on Gandhi and a Gandhi Garden can be planned," he said.

He said that when he consulted the engineers in connection with the development of a park, they said there is a need for a good source of water and a borewell would serve the purpose. "If the UoM authorities take a decision on this issue, the park can be a reality soon," he said.

Former VC of Mangalore and Goa universities B Sheik Ali said that his long-pending demand for the establishment of a Peace Chair at the centre is yet to be fulfilled. He urged the UoM authorities to consider his demand once again.

"The need of the hour for our society, in view of maintaining peace and harmony, is brotherhood. The wish of Gandhi, throughout his life, was peace and communal tolerance in the society. At a time when there is communal disturbances in the society, the principles of Gandhi can show the path," he said.

A civic worker of the Mysuru City Corporation Poovamma was felicitated on the occasion. In-charge VC C Basavaraju, Registrar D Bharathi, Centre for Gandhian Studies Director M S Shekar and chairman of the department of Studies in Social Work R Shivappa were present.