CHAMPIONING EDUCATION

Though she could not read or write, she saw how the absence of a proper learning environment was affecting the children's prospects, particularly those preparing for competitive exams - A resident

- TUSHAR A MAJUKAR & CA ITNALMATH @Raibag (Belagavi district)

In a small village called Mantur, located in the Raibag taluk of Belagavi district, a remarkable story of determination and leadership is unfolding. Mallavva Bhimappa Meti, a 48-year-old farmer and two-time Gram Panchayat member, has become a beacon of hope for her community. Despite being illiterate herself, Mallavva has spearheaded the establishment of a library to support the educational aspirations of the students in her village.

The need for education in Mantur

Mantur, with a population of about 6,000, has limited educational resources. It has only one primary school, and for higher education, students have to travel to towns like Gokak or Raibag. This distance, combined with a lack of proper study material, has discouraged many children of Mantur from pursuing further education. Mallavva, a farmer from a middle-class family, noticed this issue and became deeply concerned. Though she could not read or write, she saw how the absence of a proper learning environment was affecting the children's prospects, particularly those preparing for competitive exams.