On June 12, near the Udupi DC office, a protest was staged by various associations including the Udupi District Farmers’ Association, Centre of Indian Trade Union, Dalith Sangharsha Association, Karnataka Prantha Farmer Association, and Karnataka Pranth Agricultural Labourers’ Association. The protest aimed at urging the authorities to re-open the Agriculture Diploma College in Brahmavar.
During the protest, members from these associations, along with teaching and non-teaching staff, expressed their strong demand for the college to be re-opened, ideally as a degree college. They highlighted the significant investment of Rs 15 crore in building the college and its student hostel, which would go to waste if not utilized.
The closure of the college poses a threat to the livelihoods of both teaching and non-teaching staff, who are at risk of losing their jobs. Speakers at the protest, including Balakrishna Shetty and Sampigedi Sanjeev Shetty, emphasized the importance of agricultural education in fostering mechanization and addressing unemployment in the region.
Balakrishna Shetty, Udupi district and state vice president of Centre of Indian Trade Union, criticized the lack of government initiative in converting the diploma college into a degree college despite initial plans. He urged the authorities to reverse the decision and ensure the continuation of agricultural education in Udupi district.
The protest gathered significant support from local leaders and activists, indicating a unified stance on the issue.