Karnataka's RGUHS asks colleges to play Naada Geethe, National Anthem at all events

Bengaluru: In a circular issued each of its affiliate colleges, the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) has directed the institutions to compulsorily sing or play the ‘Naada Geethe’ at the commencement of any event, and ensure it concludes with the rendition or playing of the National Anthem.

Playing of the Naada Geethe and National Anthem during public events is part of the protocol prescribed by the state government. RGUHS officials admitted that some of the colleges had not been following the protocol, prompting them to issue the circular. The varsity also aims to instil values of patriotism among both students and staff by having the songs played at public events.

RGUHS Vice-Chancellor Dr B C Bhagawan, while conceding that the varsity boasted a diverse student body representing various states across the country, said that it was important for them to become acquainted with the culture of Karnataka. Furthermore, the VC has instructed affiliate colleges to put a stop to the tradition of honouring either him or other varsity officials with bouquets, shawls, garlands and other paraphernalia, and instead present them with medical books. “We need to have medical books in the libraries of several medical colleges. Books gifted to officials can, in turn, be donated to the government medical colleges. My advise to other guests would be to donate books received as gifts to medical college libraries,” Dr Bhagawan said.

“The Vice-Chancellor will not accept traditional gifts, instead he may be presented with a set of textbooks. These books will be gifted to deserving students from economically weaker sections studying in government colleges,” read the circular.