In Karnataka, around 10% of gram panchayat members—6,346 out of 94,775—are illiterate. Recognizing the critical role these members play in local governance, a literacy drive was launched as part of the National Gram Swaraj campaign, led by the Abdul Nazeer Saab Rural Development Organization and the Ministry of Panchayat Raj.
The first phase, held in December 2023, provided basic education in reading, writing, and math to 3,011 members, including 2,403 women and 608 men. The second phase commenced on September 1, 2024, and will run until October 20. Retired teachers, literacy activists, gram panchayat librarians, and experienced adult educators were trained to deliver lessons.
The program includes 100 hours of personalized instruction over 50 days, with two hours of teaching daily. Teachers underwent three days of training, and the curriculum covers subjects such as leadership, health, environmental awareness, cooperation, and child labor prevention. A final evaluation will be followed by a ceremony to recognize the participants.
Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, highlighted the success of the “Sakshara Samman” initiative launched in 2022. The program, which educated illiterate members within 50 days, continues to be effective, with teachers receiving honoraria and kits.
Koppala district has the highest number of illiterate members (695), followed by Belagavi, Yadagiri, Raichur, and Kalaburagi.
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