Karnatak University Boosts Maharshi Valmiki Study Chair with Land Allotment in Dharwad
Karnatak University in Dharwad has taken a major step to revive the Maharshi Valmiki Study Chair. The university syndicate approved the allotment of two acres of land near the examination building on campus. This decision gives the chair an independent identity after years of operating from a single room.
Ending Years of Struggle for Infrastructure
Established in 2022 following a state government directive, the study chair faced significant challenges. It had a coordinator but lacked basic infrastructure, space, and sufficient funding. This situation led to growing discontent and protests from community leaders and students.
Several groups made representations to the university authorities. Prasannananda Swamiji of the Valmiki-Nayak Guru Peetha in Harihara wrote to the vice-chancellor requesting an independent site. Members of the KU Scheduled Tribe Employees' Association, Scheduled Tribe research scholars, postgraduate students, and leaders of the Valmiki-Nayak Maha Sabha in Dharwad also submitted memoranda. They personally met the vice-chancellor to press for land allocation.
For nearly three years, the absence of a visible presence for the chair fueled resentment among Valmiki community leaders and students. The university took note of these concerns and placed the issue before the syndicate. The syndicate resolved to allot two acres of land specifically for the chair.
Plans for an International Research Center and Museum
The university now plans to develop the Maharshi Valmiki Study Chair into an international-level research center. A building estimated to cost around Rs 20 crore has been proposed. Preparations for the blueprint are currently underway.
In addition, plans are in place to establish a museum as part of the study chair. The proposed museum will present the core philosophy of the original Ramayana. It will be supported by video documentaries and digital exhibits showcasing Ramayana-related heritage and legends from Karnataka.
Funding and Future Initiatives
The chair is also expected to receive a Rs 2 crore corpus grant from the government shortly. According to Ashok Hulibandi, coordinator of the Maharshi Valmiki Study Chair, this funding will help launch new academic and cultural initiatives. The grant will support the chair's expansion and enhance its research capabilities.
This move marks a significant turnaround for the study chair, which had been functioning largely in name until now. The allotment of land and planned developments promise to elevate its status and impact in the academic community.
