In a move aimed at promoting a reading culture and expanding access to knowledge resources, Mandya Deputy Commissioner Kumar on Wednesday inspected sites proposed for the allotment of around two acres of land to establish a library and knowledge centre under the Anke Gowda Jnana Pratishthana Book House, founded by Padma Shri awardee Anke Gowda.

The Deputy Commissioner visited a residential layout being developed by the Karnataka Housing Board at Elechakanahalli in Mandya taluk and inspected Civic Amenity (CA) sites that could be considered for the project. During the visit, he reviewed the availability, suitability and infrastructure requirements of the identified sites and held discussions with officials on the feasibility of allotting land for the knowledge centre.

Later, Dr. Kumar visited the Anke Gowda Jnana Pratishthana Book House on the Pandavapura–Nagamangala Road and interacted with Mr. Anke Gowda. He discussed the institution’s activities, public facilities, outreach initiatives and plans for future expansion.

The proposed land allotment is aimed at supporting the growth of the institution and strengthening its efforts to disseminate knowledge among the public. Dr. Kumar said the district administration would take the necessary steps to promote reading habits, create a conducive learning environment for youth, and improve public access to educational and knowledge resources.