Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot Commends Annapoorneshwari Food Committee; Serves Hot Meals to Students at Tumkur University

Bengaluru Express
Tumakuru, July 9: Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, visited the Annapoorneshwari Food Committee’s hot meal distribution center on the Tumkur University campus on Tuesday and personally served hot, nutritious meals to students, extending heartfelt appreciation for the initiative.

The Governor lauded the commendable work being carried out by the Annapoorneshwari Food Committee in collaboration with Pavagada Ramakrishna Sevashram and Shirdi Sai Mandir, Adarsh Nagar, Tumakuru, terming it a unique and socially impactful initiative. In his address during the University’s 18th Convocation ceremony, he highlighted this project as a model worth emulating, stating that no other university in the state offers such a thoughtful and inclusive meal program.

“It is truly remarkable that Tumkur University provides hot meals to students for just ₹5. This initiative not only addresses nutritional needs but also supports students coming from distant places. It reflects a deep commitment to student welfare,” the Governor said.

During the visit, Swami Japanandaji, Head of Pavagada Ramakrishna Sevashram, and Vice Chancellor Prof. M. V. Kateswarlu briefed the Governor on the implementation and impact of the initiative. They shared that, thanks to generous contributions from donors and the dedicated, voluntary efforts of committee members, the food program has been operating smoothly for the past three years. Currently, the scheme benefits nearly 4,000 students, including those at the newly established Gyanasiri campus.

They emphasized that hot meals served in the morning are a vital support for students who arrive early after traveling long distances—ensuring they can focus on their academics without hunger as a barrier.

Prominent members of the Annapoorneshwari Food Committee including Dr. S. Naganna, Dr. H.G. Chandrashekhar, Dr. Rameshbabu, Natarajashetty, university registrars, and college principal Prof. Drakshayini were present during the Governor’s visit.

The initiative stands as a shining example of community-driven support for higher education, bridging nourishment and learning through compassion and collaboration.