The Karnal district administration has ramped up efforts to establish libraries in all 395 gram panchayats following a directive from Union Power Minister and Karnal MP Manohar Lal Khattar. Currently, 131 libraries are operational across the district, providing books for competitive exams and basic infrastructure, with attendants appointed to assist students.
Background and directive
During his visit to his constituency last month, Khattar announced the plan and instructed officials to commence work. Deputy Commissioner Anand Kumar Sharma subsequently held meetings, reviewed the status of existing libraries, and directed officials to explore options for setting up libraries in the remaining villages.
Current status and proposals
According to official information, the 131 functional libraries offer a wide range of books related to competitive examinations along with basic infrastructure. Library attendants have been appointed in all operational libraries to assist visiting students.
“Officials of the departments concerned have been directed to conduct joint inspections in villages and submit detailed reports on suitable locations for libraries,” the DC said. Officials must assess existing buildings, renovation needs, furniture, computers, and other infrastructure based on village population, and submit affidavits with their reports.
Amit Kumar, CEO of Zila Parishad, stated: “A proposal worth around Rs 5.72 crore has been sent for the renovation of buildings and procurement of furniture in another 106 villages. In 103 gram panchayats where land is available, works worth around Rs 25.81 crore have already been approved under the D-Plan for constructing library buildings and providing essential facilities. However, around 50-55 gram panchayats currently have neither land nor suitable buildings, and the administration is exploring options to identify land before construction begins.”
Implementation and oversight
The DC warned that negligence in implementation would invite administrative action. Libraries will initially provide basic infrastructure, reading material, and books for various competitive examinations, with facilities upgraded in phases. “The objective is to create accessible learning spaces where anyone from the village can study,” the DC added. Gram panchayats have already appointed attendants to manage the libraries.
“The aim is to ensure that children and youth in villages make effective use of these libraries and prepare for competitive examinations without having to leave their villages,” he said.
Community response
Local youth welcomed the initiative. Rajiv, a resident of Kamalpur village, said: “We are thankful to Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar for focusing on libraries for rural youth. It will give us an opportunity to read different kinds of books.”
