April 3, 2026

Photo credit: ANI GUWAHATI: In a sudden move, with the opposition alliance still not fully formed, the AICC on Tuesday released its first list of 42 candidates for Assam assembly elections. The announcement has put Congress on a collision course with the regional party Raijor Dal, led by Akhil Gogoi, which had been hoping to secure some of these seats from Congress once the alliance is finalized.Among the most prominent names in the 42-candidate list are Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi (Jorhat), leader of opposition Debabrata Saikia (Nazira), and Congress MLAs Nandita Das (Hajo-Sualkuchi) and Diganta Barman (Barkhetri). ‘Embarrassed Himself’: Gaurav Gogoi Slams Assam CM Himanta Sarma Over ‘Pakistan Links’ Allegation Assam Pradesh Mahila Congress president Mira Borthakur Goswami has been nominated from the Dispur constituency in Guwahati. Youth ledeaders Tanzil Hussain and Prateek Bordoloi, sons of Congress MPs Rakibul Hussain and Pradyut Bordoloi, have received tickets from Samaguri and Margherita, respectively.Israel attacks IranUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Iran launches ‘massive missile’ strike at US airbase in Bahrain; Israel bombs BeirutFrom Khamenei’s compound to nuclear complex: Satellite images show aftermath of Iranian sites after US-Israel strikesOperation Epic Fury: US spends $700m in 24 hours; final war cost remains uncertainCongress’s decision to field former Assam PCC president Ripun Bora from Barchalla, and contest from Demow and Gauripur, has upset Raijor Dal, even as alliance discussions between the two were in an advanced stage.Gaurav Gogoi, the sitting Lok Sabha MP from Jorhat, expressed gratitude to AICC leaders and the Central Election Committee for nominating him from the Jorhat assembly seat.”I am grateful to the people of Jorhat Lok Sabha without whom I would not have reached this position. I am thankful to my late father Tarun Gogoi who taught me what it means to be an Assamese and a Congressman,” Gaurav write on X.”I am also thankful to my family, my mother, sister, wife and two little kids who have endured a lot but always with grace, joy and dignity. To my fellow Congress brothers, sisters, colleagues and elders , the time is now to take Assam in a new and bold direction,” he wrote, urging people to dream again of a Natun Bor Axom ( new greater Assam).Congress’s alliance plans with AJP, APHLC and the Left are close to being finalized, but talks with Raijor Dal remain stalled.Raijor Dal said on Monday that an alliance with Congress could be sealed if Congress agrees to give the party five preferred seats out of a list of 13.”Raijor Dal has strong candidates for the Barchalla and Demow seats. Most importantly, in 2021 by-election we got much more votes than Congress in Demow. Our party workers were highly enthusiastic this time. So this first list of Congress is a major disappointment for our party” Raijor Dal spokesperson Rasel Hussain told TOI.About the AuthorKangkan KalitaKangkan Kalita is a reporter with The Times of India and covers issues on health, education, stories of human interest while keeping a close watch on political developments and student movements. Reporting on environment and forest related issues and concerns of the northeast interest him equally.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIsrael Bombs Iran’s Presidential Office, Trump Says Iran’s Leadership ‘Gone’, ‘Too Late For Talks’Mercedes Benz India: Why the FTA Won’t Lower Car Prices in 2026PM Modi Steps Up Gulf Diplomacy Amid US Iran War, India Warns Of Serious Consequences On EconomyBihar Buzz: Will CM Nitish Kumar’s Son Nishant Kumar Enter Politics Through Rajya Sabha Route?As Protests Break Out In India, A Look At Why Ayatollah Khamenei Was Spiritual Anchor For Shia Muslims“Not the Right Choice But The Only Choice”: IAF Veteran on Rafale DilemmaDelhi Police Detain 4,000 In Pre-Holi Crackdown Under Operation Aaghat 4.0Narendra Modi: Global Digital Leader Surpasses 30 Million YouTube SubscribersIndian Air Force Begins Process To Replace 20-Year-Old VIP Jets Used By Ministers And Military ChiefsIndia-Canada Uranium Deal Explained: Why It Matters For India’s Future?123Photostories14 types of veg and non-veg deep-fried pakodas to make the Holi party even more flavourfulRevenge bedtime procrastination: Why you stay up late even when you’re exhausted and how to win over this habitIs Gossip Really That Bad? 5 Surprising Reasons Psychology Says It’s Actually Good for YouLab-grown gold vs mined gold: What’s the real difference in price, purity, and investment value?Lunar eclipse 2026: See stunning ‘Blood Moon’ photos from across the worldTotal lunar eclipse 2026: Photos of rare ‘Blood Moon’Holi 2026: From Devoleena Bhattacharjee and husband Shanwaz, Gaurav Khanna-Akanksha Chamola to Divyanka Tripathi- Vivek Dahiya; TV celebs’ colourful pictures from the festivitiesTop 5 tallest residential buildings in Europe (2026)5 of the worst travel crisis the world has seen since 2020From salad to halwa: 8 ways to consume raw papaya to improve gut health123Hot PicksIran droneUS Iran War Impact on Stock MarketMiddle East CrisisGulf Flights UpdateIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingNBA Injury UpdateUS Israel Strike IranUS Attack on IranCBSE postpones Class 10 and 12 board examsUS Strike IranLG Hospital AhmedabadMiddle East CrisisIsrael Iran ConflictChandra Grahan 2026 TimeSchool Holiday in March

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
Photo credit: ANI GUWAHATI: In a sudden move, with the opposition alliance still not fully formed, the AICC on Tuesday released its first list of 42 candidates for Assam assembly elections. The announcement has put Congress on a collision course with the regional party Raijor Dal, led by Akhil Gogoi, which had been hoping to secure some of these seats from Congress once the alliance is finalized.Among the most prominent names in the 42-candidate list are Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi (Jorhat), leader of opposition Debabrata Saikia (Nazira), and Congress MLAs Nandita Das (Hajo-Sualkuchi) and Diganta Barman (Barkhetri). ‘Embarrassed Himself’: Gaurav Gogoi Slams Assam CM Himanta Sarma Over ‘Pakistan Links’ Allegation Assam Pradesh Mahila Congress president Mira Borthakur Goswami has been nominated from the Dispur constituency in Guwahati. Youth ledeaders Tanzil Hussain and Prateek Bordoloi, sons of Congress MPs Rakibul Hussain and Pradyut Bordoloi, have received tickets from Samaguri and Margherita, respectively.Israel attacks IranUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Iran launches ‘massive missile’ strike at US airbase in Bahrain; Israel bombs BeirutFrom Khamenei’s compound to nuclear complex: Satellite images show aftermath of Iranian sites after US-Israel strikesOperation Epic Fury: US spends 0m in 24 hours; final war cost remains uncertainCongress’s decision to field former Assam PCC president Ripun Bora from Barchalla, and contest from Demow and Gauripur, has upset Raijor Dal, even as alliance discussions between the two were in an advanced stage.Gaurav Gogoi, the sitting Lok Sabha MP from Jorhat, expressed gratitude to AICC leaders and the Central Election Committee for nominating him from the Jorhat assembly seat.”I am grateful to the people of Jorhat Lok Sabha without whom I would not have reached this position. I am thankful to my late father Tarun Gogoi who taught me what it means to be an Assamese and a Congressman,” Gaurav write on X.”I am also thankful to my family, my mother, sister, wife and two little kids who have endured a lot but always with grace, joy and dignity. To my fellow Congress brothers, sisters, colleagues and elders , the time is now to take Assam in a new and bold direction,” he wrote, urging people to dream again of a Natun Bor Axom ( new greater Assam).Congress’s alliance plans with AJP, APHLC and the Left are close to being finalized, but talks with Raijor Dal remain stalled.Raijor Dal said on Monday that an alliance with Congress could be sealed if Congress agrees to give the party five preferred seats out of a list of 13.”Raijor Dal has strong candidates for the Barchalla and Demow seats. Most importantly, in 2021 by-election we got much more votes than Congress in Demow. Our party workers were highly enthusiastic this time. So this first list of Congress is a major disappointment for our party” Raijor Dal spokesperson Rasel Hussain told TOI.About the AuthorKangkan KalitaKangkan Kalita is a reporter with The Times of India and covers issues on health, education, stories of human interest while keeping a close watch on political developments and student movements. Reporting on environment and forest related issues and concerns of the northeast interest him equally.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIsrael Bombs Iran’s Presidential Office, Trump Says Iran’s Leadership ‘Gone’, ‘Too Late For Talks’Mercedes Benz India: Why the FTA Won’t Lower Car Prices in 2026PM Modi Steps Up Gulf Diplomacy Amid US Iran War, India Warns Of Serious Consequences On EconomyBihar Buzz: Will CM Nitish Kumar’s Son Nishant Kumar Enter Politics Through Rajya Sabha Route?As Protests Break Out In India, A Look At Why Ayatollah Khamenei Was Spiritual Anchor For Shia Muslims“Not the Right Choice But The Only Choice”: IAF Veteran on Rafale DilemmaDelhi Police Detain 4,000 In Pre-Holi Crackdown Under Operation Aaghat 4.0Narendra Modi: Global Digital Leader Surpasses 30 Million YouTube SubscribersIndian Air Force Begins Process To Replace 20-Year-Old VIP Jets Used By Ministers And Military ChiefsIndia-Canada Uranium Deal Explained: Why It Matters For India’s Future?123Photostories14 types of veg and non-veg deep-fried pakodas to make the Holi party even more flavourfulRevenge bedtime procrastination: Why you stay up late even when you’re exhausted and how to win over this habitIs Gossip Really That Bad? 5 Surprising Reasons Psychology Says It’s Actually Good for YouLab-grown gold vs mined gold: What’s the real difference in price, purity, and investment value?Lunar eclipse 2026: See stunning ‘Blood Moon’ photos from across the worldTotal lunar eclipse 2026: Photos of rare ‘Blood Moon’Holi 2026: From Devoleena Bhattacharjee and husband Shanwaz, Gaurav Khanna-Akanksha Chamola to Divyanka Tripathi- Vivek Dahiya; TV celebs’ colourful pictures from the festivitiesTop 5 tallest residential buildings in Europe (2026)5 of the worst travel crisis the world has seen since 2020From salad to halwa: 8 ways to consume raw papaya to improve gut health123Hot PicksIran droneUS Iran War Impact on Stock MarketMiddle East CrisisGulf Flights UpdateIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingNBA Injury UpdateUS Israel Strike IranUS Attack on IranCBSE postpones Class 10 and 12 board examsUS Strike IranLG Hospital AhmedabadMiddle East CrisisIsrael Iran ConflictChandra Grahan 2026 TimeSchool Holiday in March


Congress announces first list for Assam polls; Gaurav Gogoi to contest from Jorhat

GUWAHATI: In a sudden move, with the opposition alliance still not fully formed, the AICC on Tuesday released its first list of 42 candidates for Assam assembly elections. The announcement has put Congress on a collision course with the regional party Raijor Dal, led by Akhil Gogoi, which had been hoping to secure some of these seats from Congress once the alliance is finalized.Among the most prominent names in the 42-candidate list are Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi (Jorhat), leader of opposition Debabrata Saikia (Nazira), and Congress MLAs Nandita Das (Hajo-Sualkuchi) and Diganta Barman (Barkhetri).

‘Embarrassed Himself’: Gaurav Gogoi Slams Assam CM Himanta Sarma Over ‘Pakistan Links’ Allegation

Assam Pradesh Mahila Congress president Mira Borthakur Goswami has been nominated from the Dispur constituency in Guwahati. Youth ledeaders Tanzil Hussain and Prateek Bordoloi, sons of Congress MPs Rakibul Hussain and Pradyut Bordoloi, have received tickets from Samaguri and Margherita, respectively.Congress’s decision to field former Assam PCC president Ripun Bora from Barchalla, and contest from Demow and Gauripur, has upset Raijor Dal, even as alliance discussions between the two were in an advanced stage.Gaurav Gogoi, the sitting Lok Sabha MP from Jorhat, expressed gratitude to AICC leaders and the Central Election Committee for nominating him from the Jorhat assembly seat.“I am grateful to the people of Jorhat Lok Sabha without whom I would not have reached this position. I am thankful to my late father Tarun Gogoi who taught me what it means to be an Assamese and a Congressman,” Gaurav write on X.“I am also thankful to my family, my mother, sister, wife and two little kids who have endured a lot but always with grace, joy and dignity. To my fellow Congress brothers, sisters, colleagues and elders , the time is now to take Assam in a new and bold direction,” he wrote, urging people to dream again of a Natun Bor Axom ( new greater Assam).Congress’s alliance plans with AJP, APHLC and the Left are close to being finalized, but talks with Raijor Dal remain stalled.Raijor Dal said on Monday that an alliance with Congress could be sealed if Congress agrees to give the party five preferred seats out of a list of 13.“Raijor Dal has strong candidates for the Barchalla and Demow seats. Most importantly, in 2021 by-election we got much more votes than Congress in Demow. Our party workers were highly enthusiastic this time. So this first list of Congress is a major disappointment for our party” Raijor Dal spokesperson Rasel Hussain told TOI.



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Zahraa Ilyas, a Bachelor of Commerce student at Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, got placed with investment banker Goldman Sachs in July last year. Placements happen throughout the final year and she’s finishing her programme only this year. Zahraa’s is not a small feat if anxious conversations on vanishing entry-level jobs are to be taken seriously. While artificial intelligence has been around for a while, much has changed since the generative kind of intelligence dropped three years ago, overwhelming every topic with a “top line and bottom line”.It is not only changing how work gets done, but also shaping hiring decisions — especially for fresh recruits. What has changed is that the training runway for fresh graduates has reduced significantly, says Kamal Karanth, co-founder of Xpheno, a Bengaluru-based specialist staffing company.The net result is something too demanding. “Companies want ‘ready-to-eat’ graduates — hire today, deploy tomorrow,” says S Sadagopan, founder and former director of IIIT-Bangalore. Recruiters today ask extensively about projects, industry certifications, skill-based credentials and hands-on experience, says Lt Gen M D Venkatesh, vice chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). “Students who have completed these programmes are generally more confident in interviews and handle technical and problem-solving questions better,” he says.A new kind of rat raceMany colleges in Karnataka, long a magnet for students from across the country and beyond, are quick to realise what they are up against — the traditional degree alone won’t cut it. “AI is now a key basic skill for most of the roles companies are asking for. Companies always look for some specific skills, but they do not mention as much. When there are two good candidates, they pick the one who is more fluent with AI tech and tools,” says Asghar Ahmed, dean for training and placement at Mount Carmel. Before the recruitment, Zahraa underwent 15 days of rigorous training that covered both aptitude and soft skills. “When I realised that Goldman Sachs was coming for campus recruitment, I reached out to the trainers to understand how to prepare,” she says. Mount Carmel’s training module includes algorithmic thinking, critical thinking, problem-solving, AI tools and Microsoft Excel.Skilling is now the last strawIf upskilling was merely fashionable and a resume add-on until the pandemic, it has now become the last straw. For example, after the pandemic, Christ Deemed-to-be University introduced a ‘digital policy’. Drawn up especially for the School of Commerce, it trains every student in AI baseline requirements, with a specific focus on agentic AI, and tools like Visual Basic code, Python, LLMs etc. “These extra courses are the ones which are going to define students’ prospects, not the regular conventional kind of programmes,” says Biju Toms, director of the School of Commerce. “Earlier, we used to say that classroom learning is the key and the faculty was considered sage on stage. All those things are gone. What is important today is how do you supplement it? Most universities make the mistake of giving just theoretical exposure. What students need is hands-on training,” he says. Biju says corporates have become highly demanding. “Earlier, they used to hire in large numbers. Now, many of them are cutting down on numbers. Though companies are not looking at a fully trained AI/ML candidate, when the hiring happens, students with tech exposure enjoy a clear advantage.”Anil P, placement officer at St. Joseph’s University in Bengaluru, says the industry is constantly giving a heads-up on what they expect from fresh grads. For example, companies now expect students of both pure sciences and humanities subjects to know MS Office and Excel. “It used to be that only commerce graduates were familiar with these tools. Now that has changed. So, we wove that into our skill-based training programme for all students,” he says.‘Nature of jobs change every 5 yrs’The National Institute of Technology-Karnataka (NITK) in Surathkal, Dakshina Kannada district, is in constant touch with industry partners and alumni to understand the nature of changes happening to technology at light-speed. “The nature of jobs will change significantly every 5 years, making even new curricula obsolete by the time students graduate,” says Prof B Ravi, director of NIT Karnataka, Surathkal, and Institute Chair Professor at IIT Bombay. Industry partners and alumni are regularly involved in evaluating curricula and individual courses, suggesting improvements, delivering lectures, offering project topics and participating in evaluations. “As far as engineering graduates are concerned, what truly matters is the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, a quality increasingly favoured by companies during placements,” says Ravi.NITK, over the past two years, has been conducting multiple rounds of consultations, surveys and reviews involving faculty, alumni and industry stakeholders. These exercises, Ravi says, led to several key insights, including the need to reduce the overall credit load, introduce greater flexibility through electives, develop new minor programmes, and enable multiple career pathways spanning academia, industry and entrepreneurship. “Students recognise that top jobs go to those who can demonstrate skills, not merely academic knowledge. As a result, many are investing significant time in online learning, vacation internships and weekend freelancing. All such activities contributing to professional development must be formally integrated into the curriculum, academic calendar and weekly timetable,” he says.The rise of ‘add-on’ modulesManipal Academy of Higher Education says it hedges against headwinds by regularly reviewing its curriculum with inputs from academia, industry, and by looking at emerging developments. “What these initiatives do is add an extra layer, more hands-on work, greater exposure to real-life requirements and early familiarity with how things function in industry and other workplaces,” says Venkatesh, VC of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).He notes that many recent additions are being introduced outside the formal university syllabus, primarily due to the need for speed and flexibility. “Formal syllabus revisions take time. Add-on modules allow us to respond much faster. If something new emerges, we can introduce it quickly, modify it, or even discontinue it without disturbing the core academic structure,” he says.Venkatesh also points to a significant shift in higher education towards skill-based micro-credentials, which industries increasingly expect from entry-level employees. On graduate-level entry jobs, he said the university does not see this as a decline but as an adjustment to change. “Entry-level roles are evolving. By exposing students to a wider range of skills, we are opening up more possibilities—across internships, early career roles, startups, research and interdisciplinary areas—rather than pushing everyone into a single narrow pathway,” he says.MAHE has a dedicated Centre for Micro-Credentials at the university that helps faculty actively design, guide and oversee these initiatives, rather than merely implementing externally driven ideas. “Faculty can develop micro-credentials independently, in partnership with industry or industry experts or partner universities. The Govt of India and regulators such as AICTE are actively promoting these initiatives.”Hands tied for affiliated collegesAnanth Prabhu G, cybersecurity expert and a professor, points out that many colleges are unable to make timely changes to syllabus because of structural differences in India’s higher education system. “Colleges in Karnataka fall into 3 categories: affiliated, autonomous and deemed-to-be universities. In affiliated colleges, he notes, the university controls the syllabus, question papers and degree, while teachers only award internal marks. The college has virtually no say in shaping the programme,” he points out. “Autonomous colleges, on the other hand, have the freedom to design their own syllabus, though the degree is awarded by parent university. In the case of deemed universities, curriculum design, evaluation and degree certification are all handled internally,” Prabhu says.An AI divide is emergingAnanth Prabhu G, a cybersecurity expert and professor at Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management, Mangaluru, warns of a growing AI divide, similar to the digital divide of the past. “A few people know how to use AI effectively, while most do not understand how it works,” he says. AI education, he argues, must begin at the school level, especially since today’s students are digital natives. Parents, too, need awareness. Cybercrime, he says, became far more sophisticated, with criminals using AI to send flawless phishing emails. “Earlier, we told people to look for grammatical mistakes. Now you won’t find any,” he says. AI education should not be confined to computer science departments but integrated across commerce, law, humanities and management programmes. Despite widespread anxiety, Prabhu says placements have not yet seen a sharp decline. While minor fluctuations exist, companies continue to hire, largely because AI outputs are not 100% accurate, making human oversight essential. However, he cautions that a major shift is inevitable within the next 2 years, and that AI disruption will not be limited to engineering alone, but will affect commerce, management and all other disciplines.‘Fundamentals matter more than any tool’Whatever students study, they should study it well. That is the first and most important thing. They should not worry about tools. What AWS needs is not what Microsoft needs, and what an oil company needs is not what a hospital needs. Once they master their fundamentals, it takes only a few days or weeks to apply that knowledge to any specific domain. That is how they become productive and retain their jobs.Many students don’t have sufficient background. Machine learning and these AI tools come out of years of research in statistics, inference and neural networks. These are not new. They were developed in the 60s and 70s, but earlier we didn’t have the computational power. Today we do. That’s why students need time to build a solid foundation. Knowing a tool alone is never sufficient. If the tool becomes obsolete tomorrow and you know only the tool, then you also become obsolete. But if you know what is behind the tool, when the new one comes, you can still master it.Students must also learn the art of learning to learn because new tools will keep coming, and nobody will have the time to teach each one. They should always be open to new ideas. Something works in one domain, something else works in another, so they should not get attached to one tool. With strong fundamentals and the ability to learn continuously, they can handle any change. AI will not replace people — with the right grounding, people can actually do much better with AI in the loop.—S Sadagopan, founder-director, IIIT-BEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. 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Zahraa Ilyas, a Bachelor of Commerce student at Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, got placed with investment banker Goldman Sachs in July last year. Placements happen throughout the final year and she’s finishing her programme only this year. Zahraa’s is not a small feat if anxious conversations on vanishing entry-level jobs are to be taken seriously. While artificial intelligence has been around for a while, much has changed since the generative kind of intelligence dropped three years ago, overwhelming every topic with a “top line and bottom line”.It is not only changing how work gets done, but also shaping hiring decisions — especially for fresh recruits. What has changed is that the training runway for fresh graduates has reduced significantly, says Kamal Karanth, co-founder of Xpheno, a Bengaluru-based specialist staffing company.The net result is something too demanding. “Companies want ‘ready-to-eat’ graduates — hire today, deploy tomorrow,” says S Sadagopan, founder and former director of IIIT-Bangalore. Recruiters today ask extensively about projects, industry certifications, skill-based credentials and hands-on experience, says Lt Gen M D Venkatesh, vice chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). “Students who have completed these programmes are generally more confident in interviews and handle technical and problem-solving questions better,” he says.A new kind of rat raceMany colleges in Karnataka, long a magnet for students from across the country and beyond, are quick to realise what they are up against — the traditional degree alone won’t cut it. “AI is now a key basic skill for most of the roles companies are asking for. Companies always look for some specific skills, but they do not mention as much. When there are two good candidates, they pick the one who is more fluent with AI tech and tools,” says Asghar Ahmed, dean for training and placement at Mount Carmel. Before the recruitment, Zahraa underwent 15 days of rigorous training that covered both aptitude and soft skills. “When I realised that Goldman Sachs was coming for campus recruitment, I reached out to the trainers to understand how to prepare,” she says. Mount Carmel’s training module includes algorithmic thinking, critical thinking, problem-solving, AI tools and Microsoft Excel.Skilling is now the last strawIf upskilling was merely fashionable and a resume add-on until the pandemic, it has now become the last straw. For example, after the pandemic, Christ Deemed-to-be University introduced a ‘digital policy’. Drawn up especially for the School of Commerce, it trains every student in AI baseline requirements, with a specific focus on agentic AI, and tools like Visual Basic code, Python, LLMs etc. “These extra courses are the ones which are going to define students’ prospects, not the regular conventional kind of programmes,” says Biju Toms, director of the School of Commerce. “Earlier, we used to say that classroom learning is the key and the faculty was considered sage on stage. All those things are gone. What is important today is how do you supplement it? Most universities make the mistake of giving just theoretical exposure. What students need is hands-on training,” he says. Biju says corporates have become highly demanding. “Earlier, they used to hire in large numbers. Now, many of them are cutting down on numbers. Though companies are not looking at a fully trained AI/ML candidate, when the hiring happens, students with tech exposure enjoy a clear advantage.”Anil P, placement officer at St. Joseph’s University in Bengaluru, says the industry is constantly giving a heads-up on what they expect from fresh grads. For example, companies now expect students of both pure sciences and humanities subjects to know MS Office and Excel. “It used to be that only commerce graduates were familiar with these tools. Now that has changed. So, we wove that into our skill-based training programme for all students,” he says.‘Nature of jobs change every 5 yrs’The National Institute of Technology-Karnataka (NITK) in Surathkal, Dakshina Kannada district, is in constant touch with industry partners and alumni to understand the nature of changes happening to technology at light-speed. “The nature of jobs will change significantly every 5 years, making even new curricula obsolete by the time students graduate,” says Prof B Ravi, director of NIT Karnataka, Surathkal, and Institute Chair Professor at IIT Bombay. Industry partners and alumni are regularly involved in evaluating curricula and individual courses, suggesting improvements, delivering lectures, offering project topics and participating in evaluations. “As far as engineering graduates are concerned, what truly matters is the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, a quality increasingly favoured by companies during placements,” says Ravi.NITK, over the past two years, has been conducting multiple rounds of consultations, surveys and reviews involving faculty, alumni and industry stakeholders. These exercises, Ravi says, led to several key insights, including the need to reduce the overall credit load, introduce greater flexibility through electives, develop new minor programmes, and enable multiple career pathways spanning academia, industry and entrepreneurship. “Students recognise that top jobs go to those who can demonstrate skills, not merely academic knowledge. As a result, many are investing significant time in online learning, vacation internships and weekend freelancing. All such activities contributing to professional development must be formally integrated into the curriculum, academic calendar and weekly timetable,” he says.The rise of ‘add-on’ modulesManipal Academy of Higher Education says it hedges against headwinds by regularly reviewing its curriculum with inputs from academia, industry, and by looking at emerging developments. “What these initiatives do is add an extra layer, more hands-on work, greater exposure to real-life requirements and early familiarity with how things function in industry and other workplaces,” says Venkatesh, VC of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).He notes that many recent additions are being introduced outside the formal university syllabus, primarily due to the need for speed and flexibility. “Formal syllabus revisions take time. Add-on modules allow us to respond much faster. If something new emerges, we can introduce it quickly, modify it, or even discontinue it without disturbing the core academic structure,” he says.Venkatesh also points to a significant shift in higher education towards skill-based micro-credentials, which industries increasingly expect from entry-level employees. On graduate-level entry jobs, he said the university does not see this as a decline but as an adjustment to change. “Entry-level roles are evolving. By exposing students to a wider range of skills, we are opening up more possibilities—across internships, early career roles, startups, research and interdisciplinary areas—rather than pushing everyone into a single narrow pathway,” he says.MAHE has a dedicated Centre for Micro-Credentials at the university that helps faculty actively design, guide and oversee these initiatives, rather than merely implementing externally driven ideas. “Faculty can develop micro-credentials independently, in partnership with industry or industry experts or partner universities. The Govt of India and regulators such as AICTE are actively promoting these initiatives.”Hands tied for affiliated collegesAnanth Prabhu G, cybersecurity expert and a professor, points out that many colleges are unable to make timely changes to syllabus because of structural differences in India’s higher education system. “Colleges in Karnataka fall into 3 categories: affiliated, autonomous and deemed-to-be universities. In affiliated colleges, he notes, the university controls the syllabus, question papers and degree, while teachers only award internal marks. The college has virtually no say in shaping the programme,” he points out. “Autonomous colleges, on the other hand, have the freedom to design their own syllabus, though the degree is awarded by parent university. In the case of deemed universities, curriculum design, evaluation and degree certification are all handled internally,” Prabhu says.An AI divide is emergingAnanth Prabhu G, a cybersecurity expert and professor at Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management, Mangaluru, warns of a growing AI divide, similar to the digital divide of the past. “A few people know how to use AI effectively, while most do not understand how it works,” he says. AI education, he argues, must begin at the school level, especially since today’s students are digital natives. Parents, too, need awareness. Cybercrime, he says, became far more sophisticated, with criminals using AI to send flawless phishing emails. “Earlier, we told people to look for grammatical mistakes. Now you won’t find any,” he says. AI education should not be confined to computer science departments but integrated across commerce, law, humanities and management programmes. Despite widespread anxiety, Prabhu says placements have not yet seen a sharp decline. While minor fluctuations exist, companies continue to hire, largely because AI outputs are not 100% accurate, making human oversight essential. However, he cautions that a major shift is inevitable within the next 2 years, and that AI disruption will not be limited to engineering alone, but will affect commerce, management and all other disciplines.‘Fundamentals matter more than any tool’Whatever students study, they should study it well. That is the first and most important thing. They should not worry about tools. What AWS needs is not what Microsoft needs, and what an oil company needs is not what a hospital needs. Once they master their fundamentals, it takes only a few days or weeks to apply that knowledge to any specific domain. That is how they become productive and retain their jobs.Many students don’t have sufficient background. Machine learning and these AI tools come out of years of research in statistics, inference and neural networks. These are not new. They were developed in the 60s and 70s, but earlier we didn’t have the computational power. Today we do. That’s why students need time to build a solid foundation. Knowing a tool alone is never sufficient. If the tool becomes obsolete tomorrow and you know only the tool, then you also become obsolete. But if you know what is behind the tool, when the new one comes, you can still master it.Students must also learn the art of learning to learn because new tools will keep coming, and nobody will have the time to teach each one. They should always be open to new ideas. Something works in one domain, something else works in another, so they should not get attached to one tool. With strong fundamentals and the ability to learn continuously, they can handle any change. AI will not replace people — with the right grounding, people can actually do much better with AI in the loop.—S Sadagopan, founder-director, IIIT-BEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingiShowSpeed babyGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna 0
On a weekday afternoon at a govt college in central Karnataka, the student notice board is crowded with circulars on examinations, scholarships and cultural events. What’s missing, however, are printed campaign posters, and hand-written appeals for votes or calls for debates that once defined campus life in the state. It has been nearly four decades now since college corridors in Karnataka have fallen quiet, and stopped reverberating with passionate chants from the student community either protesting or rallying over a myriad causes. Student union elections have remained banned across colleges and universities in Karnataka, which, some would argue, has left campuses politically subdued compared to earlier decades.The ban & a ‘talent crunch’That long silence may now be nearing an end — after nearly 37 years, the Congress govt in Karnataka has announced its plans to revive student union elections across the state’s colleges and universities, reopening a chapter that was abruptly closed in 1989. Faced with concerns over violence, politicisation and academic disruption, it was also a Congress govt led by chief minister Veerendra Patil that put an end to campus politics. When CM Patil announced the ban, it was meant to be a temporary measure, but it continued. Soon, nominated or advisory student councils replaced ‘politically’ elected unions. Though students could still raise issues related to fees, hostels and examination delays, formal representation weakened over time.But the ban and its aftermath have kept alive a debate touching on democracy, discipline and the role of educational institutions in shaping future political leadership. They have also kept the spotlight on the state’s once-vibrant student movements, their decline, and the political calculations surrounding a possible revival.The current Congress govt’s announcement to revive campus politics, which came as a surprise to many, was made at the behest of Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. “We need to tap young political talent. It is possible with campus elections,” says deputy CM D K Shivakumar.An EVM for campus pollsFor many in Karnataka, the govt’s attempts at reviving campus politics have stirred memories of a period when campuses were lively spaces of democratic practice. In 1982, students of MES College in Bengaluru queued up to vote in a student union election that would later enter the state’s electoral lore — electronic voting machines, then a novelty, were tested in the college election on a pilot basis. A year later, EVMs were introduced in assembly elections.At the time, universities were more than places for lectures and examinations. Institutions such as Mysore University, Karnatak University in Dharwad and Bangalore University were known for intense debates on land reforms, linguistic identity, social justice and reservation policies. Student unions functioned as representative bodies elected through regular polls, negotiating with the administration on hostels, scholarships, transport facilities and examination reforms.”Campus elections were our first lessons in democracy,” says MLC and govt chief whip in the Legislative Council Saleem Ahmed, a former student leader who later entered mainstream politics. “We learnt how to campaign without money, how to speak to people and how to accept defeat.”The 1970s and 1980sStudent politics in Karnataka during the 1960s and 1970s often mirrored broader social movements. While political parties maintained informal links with student groups, campuses also saw independent collectives focused on academic and welfare issues. For students from marginalised communities, unions provided an institutional platform to articulate concerns that might otherwise have gone unheard.By the late 1970s and early 1980s, however, the nature of campus politics began to shift. Student organisations affiliated with mainstream political parties grew stronger, and elections increasingly reflected state-level rivalries. Allegations of money power, external interference and the involvement of non-students became common. Ideological and caste-based divisions sharpened, occasionally erupting into violence.Rising through the ranksFor some big names in contemporary politics, campuses were the launchpad. Long before D K Shivakumar became deputy CM and president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, his political education began not in party offices or election war rooms, but in college corridors. At Sri Jagadguru Renukacharya College in the early 1980s, Shivakumar emerged as a visible student leader affiliated with the National Students Union of India (NSUI), at a time when campuses were active arenas of debate, mobilisation and electoral competition. That exposure, he has repeatedly said, gave him his first lessons in leadership, organisation and public engagement.A few kilometres away, and a decade earlier, B K Hariprasad, now a former AICC general secretary and MLC, began his political journey as a student activist at MES College, Bengaluru, in 1972. Rising through the ranks of student and youth organisations, Hariprasad went on to serve as vice-president of the All India Youth Congress, AICC general secretary and a four-term Rajya Sabha member. His work among backward classes and grassroots networks earned him recognition from senior Congress leaders, including Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi.Transport minister Ramalinga Reddy, an eight-time MLA, also rose from student activism as the secretary of the students’ union at Govt Science College in Bengaluru. He was also a member of the student council at Bangalore University. In 1977, he became the student union president at the university.Their trajectories — from student politics to the highest levels of party and govt — are now at the centre of a renewed policy debate in Karnataka. “I myself came up through campus politics. Being a student leader helped me in my political career,” Shivakumar says. “Student elections are essential to nurture young political talent.”Feasibility & other questionsTo examine the framework, feasibility and implications of reintroducing campus polls, the govt has constituted a high-level 11-member committee. Medical education minister Sharanprakash Patil has been appointed convener. The panel includes higher education minister Dr M C Sudhakar, MLAs Rizwan Arshad and B Shivanna, MLCs Saleem Ahmed, Basanagouda Badarli and Puttanna, Karnataka Youth Congress president H S Manjunath and NSUI president Keerthi Ganesh.The committee has been asked to submit its report within 15 days, Shivakumar said in a letter dated Dec 27. Among the questions before it are whether student elections should be conducted under political party banners or in a non-political format, and whether reservations should be extended to women, OBCs, SC/STs and students with disabilities.Retired academic Bandu Upadhya, who worked as college principal during some of the tumultuous years of campus politics, recalls the atmosphere then vividly. “Candidates were openly sponsored by political parties. There were sharp divisions among students, frequent arguments and sometimes clashes. Anti-social elements also entered campuses,” he says.Academic calendars used to be frequently disrupted, police presence during campus elections became routine, and administrators struggled to maintain order. In 1989, under the Congress govt headed by the then CM Veerendra Patil, student union elections were banned across Karnataka.Arguing for & against the banWhat was initially described as a temporary measure became an entrenched policy. Elected student bodies were dismantled and replaced with nominated or advisory councils. Over time, student participation in institutional governance became largely symbolic. Generations of students passed through colleges without ever voting for a class representative, let alone a union president.Supporters of the ban argue that it brought in stability. “After the ban, there were fewer disruptions, and academic schedules became predictable,” says a former university administrator.Critics counter that the silence came at a cost. “Banning student elections reflects a lack of trust in our youth,” says Ravindra Reshme, political commentator and former president of the Federation of Karnataka University and College Teachers’ Association. “It denies students practical democratic training.”Despite the ban, political engagement did not disappear from campuses. Students continued to organise protests around issues such as fee hikes, delays in examinations, hostel facilities and reservation policies. Political parties maintained informal networks among students, particularly during state and national elections. But these activities lacked the structure, accountability and continuity of elected unions.In some private and autonomous institutions, limited forms of student councils were permitted, largely restricted to cultural activities and kept formally non-political.Student organisations remain divided on the issue. “Campus elections are the first exposure many students get to democracy,” says Adarsh M, an NSUI office-bearer from Bangalore University. “Elections help identify leaders early and train them in accountability, debate and organisation.”AISF activist Srinath Rao says elected unions provided students from marginalised backgrounds with a legitimate platform. “Without elections, representation becomes symbolic and dominated by nominations,” he said.Campus Front member Mohammed Sajid argues that student polls are about participation beyond party politics. “Even non-party students benefit when administrations are forced to listen to elected representatives,” he says.The ABVP expresses some reservations. “Campuses exist primarily for academics,” points out Mahendra K, an ABVP functionary. “We have already seen that in the past, elections often led to disruptions, violence and outside interference. Reviving them without strict safeguards will harm students’ academic interests.”SFI leader Bharath Krishna raises concerns about political influence. “There is a danger that campus elections will become extensions of ruling party politics,” he warns, calling for strict enforcement of expenditure limits and prevention of external interference.Political observers say the Congress govt’s move is also driven by organisational considerations. “Unlike the BJP, which has the RSS as a pipeline, the Congress lacks institutional channels to groom grassroots leadership,” says political strategist Vishwas Shetty. “Campus elections offer one such route.”Political analyst M N Patil points to a brighter side of campus politics. “Student leaders learn how to organise, strategise and question authority. In their absence, democracy becomes transactional,” he says.Opposition parties have reacted cautiously. BJP leaders have warned against politicising educational institutions. “Colleges should focus on academics,” senior BJP MLA and deputy opposition leader in the legislative assembly Aravind Bellad has said. “If elections are revived, there must be strict safeguards.” The JD(S), meanwhile, has taken a more nuanced position. “Student movements have shaped leaders across parties, but campuses should not become battlegrounds,” a party functionary has said when contacted. About the AuthorManuAiyappa KanathandaManu Aiyappa has been with The Times of India for over two decades, currently serving as the Political Editor. His reporting focuses on politics, public policy, and in-depth features that aim to inform and engage a broad readership. Over the years, his work has been recognised by both the Press Club of Bangalore and the Karnataka Media Academy for its clarity, credibility, and relevance to public discourse.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingOil Price TodayGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

On a weekday afternoon at a govt college in central Karnataka, the student notice board is crowded with circulars on examinations, scholarships and cultural events. What’s missing, however, are printed campaign posters, and hand-written appeals for votes or calls for debates that once defined campus life in the state. It has been nearly four decades now since college corridors in Karnataka have fallen quiet, and stopped reverberating with passionate chants from the student community either protesting or rallying over a myriad causes. Student union elections have remained banned across colleges and universities in Karnataka, which, some would argue, has left campuses politically subdued compared to earlier decades.The ban & a ‘talent crunch’That long silence may now be nearing an end — after nearly 37 years, the Congress govt in Karnataka has announced its plans to revive student union elections across the state’s colleges and universities, reopening a chapter that was abruptly closed in 1989. Faced with concerns over violence, politicisation and academic disruption, it was also a Congress govt led by chief minister Veerendra Patil that put an end to campus politics. When CM Patil announced the ban, it was meant to be a temporary measure, but it continued. Soon, nominated or advisory student councils replaced ‘politically’ elected unions. Though students could still raise issues related to fees, hostels and examination delays, formal representation weakened over time.But the ban and its aftermath have kept alive a debate touching on democracy, discipline and the role of educational institutions in shaping future political leadership. They have also kept the spotlight on the state’s once-vibrant student movements, their decline, and the political calculations surrounding a possible revival.The current Congress govt’s announcement to revive campus politics, which came as a surprise to many, was made at the behest of Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. “We need to tap young political talent. It is possible with campus elections,” says deputy CM D K Shivakumar.An EVM for campus pollsFor many in Karnataka, the govt’s attempts at reviving campus politics have stirred memories of a period when campuses were lively spaces of democratic practice. In 1982, students of MES College in Bengaluru queued up to vote in a student union election that would later enter the state’s electoral lore — electronic voting machines, then a novelty, were tested in the college election on a pilot basis. A year later, EVMs were introduced in assembly elections.At the time, universities were more than places for lectures and examinations. Institutions such as Mysore University, Karnatak University in Dharwad and Bangalore University were known for intense debates on land reforms, linguistic identity, social justice and reservation policies. Student unions functioned as representative bodies elected through regular polls, negotiating with the administration on hostels, scholarships, transport facilities and examination reforms.”Campus elections were our first lessons in democracy,” says MLC and govt chief whip in the Legislative Council Saleem Ahmed, a former student leader who later entered mainstream politics. “We learnt how to campaign without money, how to speak to people and how to accept defeat.”The 1970s and 1980sStudent politics in Karnataka during the 1960s and 1970s often mirrored broader social movements. While political parties maintained informal links with student groups, campuses also saw independent collectives focused on academic and welfare issues. For students from marginalised communities, unions provided an institutional platform to articulate concerns that might otherwise have gone unheard.By the late 1970s and early 1980s, however, the nature of campus politics began to shift. Student organisations affiliated with mainstream political parties grew stronger, and elections increasingly reflected state-level rivalries. Allegations of money power, external interference and the involvement of non-students became common. Ideological and caste-based divisions sharpened, occasionally erupting into violence.Rising through the ranksFor some big names in contemporary politics, campuses were the launchpad. Long before D K Shivakumar became deputy CM and president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, his political education began not in party offices or election war rooms, but in college corridors. At Sri Jagadguru Renukacharya College in the early 1980s, Shivakumar emerged as a visible student leader affiliated with the National Students Union of India (NSUI), at a time when campuses were active arenas of debate, mobilisation and electoral competition. That exposure, he has repeatedly said, gave him his first lessons in leadership, organisation and public engagement.A few kilometres away, and a decade earlier, B K Hariprasad, now a former AICC general secretary and MLC, began his political journey as a student activist at MES College, Bengaluru, in 1972. Rising through the ranks of student and youth organisations, Hariprasad went on to serve as vice-president of the All India Youth Congress, AICC general secretary and a four-term Rajya Sabha member. His work among backward classes and grassroots networks earned him recognition from senior Congress leaders, including Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi.Transport minister Ramalinga Reddy, an eight-time MLA, also rose from student activism as the secretary of the students’ union at Govt Science College in Bengaluru. He was also a member of the student council at Bangalore University. In 1977, he became the student union president at the university.Their trajectories — from student politics to the highest levels of party and govt — are now at the centre of a renewed policy debate in Karnataka. “I myself came up through campus politics. Being a student leader helped me in my political career,” Shivakumar says. “Student elections are essential to nurture young political talent.”Feasibility & other questionsTo examine the framework, feasibility and implications of reintroducing campus polls, the govt has constituted a high-level 11-member committee. Medical education minister Sharanprakash Patil has been appointed convener. The panel includes higher education minister Dr M C Sudhakar, MLAs Rizwan Arshad and B Shivanna, MLCs Saleem Ahmed, Basanagouda Badarli and Puttanna, Karnataka Youth Congress president H S Manjunath and NSUI president Keerthi Ganesh.The committee has been asked to submit its report within 15 days, Shivakumar said in a letter dated Dec 27. Among the questions before it are whether student elections should be conducted under political party banners or in a non-political format, and whether reservations should be extended to women, OBCs, SC/STs and students with disabilities.Retired academic Bandu Upadhya, who worked as college principal during some of the tumultuous years of campus politics, recalls the atmosphere then vividly. “Candidates were openly sponsored by political parties. There were sharp divisions among students, frequent arguments and sometimes clashes. Anti-social elements also entered campuses,” he says.Academic calendars used to be frequently disrupted, police presence during campus elections became routine, and administrators struggled to maintain order. In 1989, under the Congress govt headed by the then CM Veerendra Patil, student union elections were banned across Karnataka.Arguing for & against the banWhat was initially described as a temporary measure became an entrenched policy. Elected student bodies were dismantled and replaced with nominated or advisory councils. Over time, student participation in institutional governance became largely symbolic. Generations of students passed through colleges without ever voting for a class representative, let alone a union president.Supporters of the ban argue that it brought in stability. “After the ban, there were fewer disruptions, and academic schedules became predictable,” says a former university administrator.Critics counter that the silence came at a cost. “Banning student elections reflects a lack of trust in our youth,” says Ravindra Reshme, political commentator and former president of the Federation of Karnataka University and College Teachers’ Association. “It denies students practical democratic training.”Despite the ban, political engagement did not disappear from campuses. Students continued to organise protests around issues such as fee hikes, delays in examinations, hostel facilities and reservation policies. Political parties maintained informal networks among students, particularly during state and national elections. But these activities lacked the structure, accountability and continuity of elected unions.In some private and autonomous institutions, limited forms of student councils were permitted, largely restricted to cultural activities and kept formally non-political.Student organisations remain divided on the issue. “Campus elections are the first exposure many students get to democracy,” says Adarsh M, an NSUI office-bearer from Bangalore University. “Elections help identify leaders early and train them in accountability, debate and organisation.”AISF activist Srinath Rao says elected unions provided students from marginalised backgrounds with a legitimate platform. “Without elections, representation becomes symbolic and dominated by nominations,” he said.Campus Front member Mohammed Sajid argues that student polls are about participation beyond party politics. “Even non-party students benefit when administrations are forced to listen to elected representatives,” he says.The ABVP expresses some reservations. “Campuses exist primarily for academics,” points out Mahendra K, an ABVP functionary. “We have already seen that in the past, elections often led to disruptions, violence and outside interference. Reviving them without strict safeguards will harm students’ academic interests.”SFI leader Bharath Krishna raises concerns about political influence. “There is a danger that campus elections will become extensions of ruling party politics,” he warns, calling for strict enforcement of expenditure limits and prevention of external interference.Political observers say the Congress govt’s move is also driven by organisational considerations. “Unlike the BJP, which has the RSS as a pipeline, the Congress lacks institutional channels to groom grassroots leadership,” says political strategist Vishwas Shetty. “Campus elections offer one such route.”Political analyst M N Patil points to a brighter side of campus politics. “Student leaders learn how to organise, strategise and question authority. In their absence, democracy becomes transactional,” he says.Opposition parties have reacted cautiously. BJP leaders have warned against politicising educational institutions. “Colleges should focus on academics,” senior BJP MLA and deputy opposition leader in the legislative assembly Aravind Bellad has said. “If elections are revived, there must be strict safeguards.” The JD(S), meanwhile, has taken a more nuanced position. “Student movements have shaped leaders across parties, but campuses should not become battlegrounds,” a party functionary has said when contacted. About the AuthorManuAiyappa KanathandaManu Aiyappa has been with The Times of India for over two decades, currently serving as the Political Editor. His reporting focuses on politics, public policy, and in-depth features that aim to inform and engage a broad readership. Over the years, his work has been recognised by both the Press Club of Bangalore and the Karnataka Media Academy for its clarity, credibility, and relevance to public discourse.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingOil Price TodayGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna 0
Bengaluru’s pollution isn’t dramatic; it’s daily: no smog alerts, no panic buying of masks — just traffic, dust and air that feels normal. The city does not shut down schools for smog, nor does it disappear under a grey blanket each winter. If you ask experts at ‘Air Quality Sector’ of Bengaluru-based research think tank CSTEP to explain this in numbers, they would say for the period between 2019 and 2024, Bengaluru’s annual average PM2.5 levels (particulate matter in the air with a diameter of 2.5 or less) have largely remained in the range of 30-35 μg/m³ (micrograms per cubic metre). In simple terms, it would mean Bengaluru’s air has a ‘moderate but constant’ level of fine pollution throughout the year. The WHO’s air quality guidelines recommend that the annual average concentration of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m³.What does it mean?While the PM2.5 concentrations have decreased in some cities, such as Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata, its exposure remains high across cities, exceeding the annual limit of 40 μg/m3 for PM2.5, set by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for India. Seasonal patterns offer some relief, but only temporarily. In Bengaluru, the seasonal mean PM2.5 concentration is highest during winter (Dec–Feb) where it averages at 43 μg/m3, exceeding the limits set by NAAQS. It is lowest during monsoon (June–Sept), at 19.8 μg/m3. Particulate matter with diameter of 2.5 or less penetrates deep into the body, damages lungs and the cardiovascular system, and raises risks of major chronic diseases, making it a critical public health concern.”Except for Chennai, which has slightly lower PM2.5 concentrations than Bengaluru, the other metros exhibit relatively higher concentrations than Bengaluru,” says Prakash Doraiswamy, sector head, air quality, at Center for Study of Science, Technology & Policy (CSTEP). Preliminary analysis for 2025 has shown unusually lower concentrations compared to previous years. “Analysis is under way to determine the reasons,” he adds.When measured against global health benchmarks, the gap widens sharply. The World Health Organization’s guideline for annual PM2.5 exposure is 5 µg/m³, a level that none of India’s major cities currently meet. “Bengaluru, like other metros, exceeds the WHO guideline several times over,” notes Nirav Lekinwala, a senior associate at CSTEP, describing the guideline as a long-term public health goal rather than a standard Indian cities are close to achieving. “Bengaluru’s relatively benign reputation is also shaped by how pollution is officially measured. Using data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s continuous monitoring stations, experts point out that Bengaluru crossed the Indian daily PM2.5 standard of 60 µg/m³ on roughly 27% of days in recent years,” he adds. WHO recommends that daily (24-hour) PM2.5 shouldn’t exceed approximately 15 µg/m³. “Comparisons with WHO daily limits are difficult, because India’s AQI framework is based on national standards,” he explains, adding that by WHO measures, exceedances are common across the country.Understanding the sourceWhen it comes to what actually dirties Bengaluru’s air, transport dominates. The most recent source-apportionment study shows that vehicles contribute about 40% of PM2.5 concentrations in the city, says Doraiswamy. Resuspended road dust and windblown soil together account for roughly 25%, reflecting the impact of traffic movement on poorly maintained roads. Secondary particles — sulphates and nitrates formed in the atmosphere from precursor gases — contribute another 16%, pointing to emissions from coal-based sources beyond city limits.Other contributors are smaller but still present. “Wood burning contributes around 4% of PM2.5,” says Nirav. Construction activity, often blamed by residents, appears to play a limited role in fine particulates. “Construction contributes less than 1% of PM2.5 concentrations, though it accounts for around 6% of PM10,” he noted, emphasising that these figures are based on pollution measured at monitoring locations after pollutants have mixed in the atmosphere.Emission-based estimates (focusing on the sources of pollutants rather than their concentration in the atmosphere) tell a similar story. Transport remains the largest source of PM2.5 emissions, followed by diesel generator sets and waste burning. Construction activity contributes an estimated 3% of PM2.5 emissions and about 11% of PM10 emissions, based on 2019 data, excluding large infrastructure projects such as metro construction.When the data walks into the clinicDr Ravindra Mehta, founder of Vaayu Chest and Sleep Speciality Clinic in Bengaluru and an innovator in interventional pulmonology, raises concerns over the accuracy of the city’s air-quality measurements, calling it a “fallacy” to assume that Bengaluru’s air is acceptable. “While Bengaluru benefits from moving air, which prevents conditions from becoming as severe as Delhi’s, the AQI has been steadily increasing over the last two years due to a significant rise in traffic intensity. This upward trend, or ‘uptick’, in pollution is worrying and should trigger immediate action from all sections of society — civil society, politicians, planners and policymakers — instead of waiting for a catastrophe,” he warns.Dr Mehta says he has observed clear patterns in respiratory illnesses in the city over the years. “Respiratory illnesses are much more common now. India already carries the unfortunate tag of being the asthma capital of the world. Asthma affects around 5–10% of the general population, and severe asthma accounts for around 10% of that. We are seeing much more allergy, asthma, lung function issues and related conditions.””This season in particular — with a combination of weather changes, increasing traffic, pollution, and high levels of travel and social mixing — our numbers have been the highest seen in years. What has also changed is that people don’t recognise symptoms early, they postpone treatment, cough for longer durations, and require more investigations and more treatment than earlier,” he explains. Data collected through screening programmes conducted by the Vaayu Chest and Sleep Speciality Clinic among traffic police, bus workers and construction workers reflects this trend. “We now have data from around 9,000 to 10,000 individuals, and nearly 29% of them show lung capacity issues. All of this reflects a progressive increase in pollution in the city,” he says.On the main sources of pollution, Dr Mehta says the problem lies in a mix of factors, with traffic playing a central role. “From a medical point of view, it’s a mix — all the problems lie in that mix. It starts with traffic, and there are multiple issues there. It’s not just the volume of traffic, but slow-moving traffic. When vehicles are idling or barely moving, pollutants concentrate in the air because engines continue to emit, leading to greater exposure and impact.”When pollution becomes routineThe Garden City doesn’t wake up to smog alerts or gas masks. Its air problem is quieter — steady, familiar, and easy to ignore. Its pollution story may lack the visual drama of northern Indian cities, but experts warn against equating visibility with risk. The damage here is cumulative, shaped by everyday exposure and gradual health impacts — the kind that rarely make headlines, but linger long after the traffic clears.About the AuthorGokul MGGokul MG is a senior digital content producer with the Times of India, Bengaluru desk. He is a writer with a soft spot for sports, Sunday leagues, urban legends, and the smell of popcorn at a matinee.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingiShowSpeed babyGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Bengaluru’s pollution isn’t dramatic; it’s daily: no smog alerts, no panic buying of masks — just traffic, dust and air that feels normal. The city does not shut down schools for smog, nor does it disappear under a grey blanket each winter. If you ask experts at ‘Air Quality Sector’ of Bengaluru-based research think tank CSTEP to explain this in numbers, they would say for the period between 2019 and 2024, Bengaluru’s annual average PM2.5 levels (particulate matter in the air with a diameter of 2.5 or less) have largely remained in the range of 30-35 μg/m³ (micrograms per cubic metre). In simple terms, it would mean Bengaluru’s air has a ‘moderate but constant’ level of fine pollution throughout the year. The WHO’s air quality guidelines recommend that the annual average concentration of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m³.What does it mean?While the PM2.5 concentrations have decreased in some cities, such as Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata, its exposure remains high across cities, exceeding the annual limit of 40 μg/m3 for PM2.5, set by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for India. Seasonal patterns offer some relief, but only temporarily. In Bengaluru, the seasonal mean PM2.5 concentration is highest during winter (Dec–Feb) where it averages at 43 μg/m3, exceeding the limits set by NAAQS. It is lowest during monsoon (June–Sept), at 19.8 μg/m3. Particulate matter with diameter of 2.5 or less penetrates deep into the body, damages lungs and the cardiovascular system, and raises risks of major chronic diseases, making it a critical public health concern.”Except for Chennai, which has slightly lower PM2.5 concentrations than Bengaluru, the other metros exhibit relatively higher concentrations than Bengaluru,” says Prakash Doraiswamy, sector head, air quality, at Center for Study of Science, Technology & Policy (CSTEP). Preliminary analysis for 2025 has shown unusually lower concentrations compared to previous years. “Analysis is under way to determine the reasons,” he adds.When measured against global health benchmarks, the gap widens sharply. The World Health Organization’s guideline for annual PM2.5 exposure is 5 µg/m³, a level that none of India’s major cities currently meet. “Bengaluru, like other metros, exceeds the WHO guideline several times over,” notes Nirav Lekinwala, a senior associate at CSTEP, describing the guideline as a long-term public health goal rather than a standard Indian cities are close to achieving. “Bengaluru’s relatively benign reputation is also shaped by how pollution is officially measured. Using data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s continuous monitoring stations, experts point out that Bengaluru crossed the Indian daily PM2.5 standard of 60 µg/m³ on roughly 27% of days in recent years,” he adds. WHO recommends that daily (24-hour) PM2.5 shouldn’t exceed approximately 15 µg/m³. “Comparisons with WHO daily limits are difficult, because India’s AQI framework is based on national standards,” he explains, adding that by WHO measures, exceedances are common across the country.Understanding the sourceWhen it comes to what actually dirties Bengaluru’s air, transport dominates. The most recent source-apportionment study shows that vehicles contribute about 40% of PM2.5 concentrations in the city, says Doraiswamy. Resuspended road dust and windblown soil together account for roughly 25%, reflecting the impact of traffic movement on poorly maintained roads. Secondary particles — sulphates and nitrates formed in the atmosphere from precursor gases — contribute another 16%, pointing to emissions from coal-based sources beyond city limits.Other contributors are smaller but still present. “Wood burning contributes around 4% of PM2.5,” says Nirav. Construction activity, often blamed by residents, appears to play a limited role in fine particulates. “Construction contributes less than 1% of PM2.5 concentrations, though it accounts for around 6% of PM10,” he noted, emphasising that these figures are based on pollution measured at monitoring locations after pollutants have mixed in the atmosphere.Emission-based estimates (focusing on the sources of pollutants rather than their concentration in the atmosphere) tell a similar story. Transport remains the largest source of PM2.5 emissions, followed by diesel generator sets and waste burning. Construction activity contributes an estimated 3% of PM2.5 emissions and about 11% of PM10 emissions, based on 2019 data, excluding large infrastructure projects such as metro construction.When the data walks into the clinicDr Ravindra Mehta, founder of Vaayu Chest and Sleep Speciality Clinic in Bengaluru and an innovator in interventional pulmonology, raises concerns over the accuracy of the city’s air-quality measurements, calling it a “fallacy” to assume that Bengaluru’s air is acceptable. “While Bengaluru benefits from moving air, which prevents conditions from becoming as severe as Delhi’s, the AQI has been steadily increasing over the last two years due to a significant rise in traffic intensity. This upward trend, or ‘uptick’, in pollution is worrying and should trigger immediate action from all sections of society — civil society, politicians, planners and policymakers — instead of waiting for a catastrophe,” he warns.Dr Mehta says he has observed clear patterns in respiratory illnesses in the city over the years. “Respiratory illnesses are much more common now. India already carries the unfortunate tag of being the asthma capital of the world. Asthma affects around 5–10% of the general population, and severe asthma accounts for around 10% of that. We are seeing much more allergy, asthma, lung function issues and related conditions.””This season in particular — with a combination of weather changes, increasing traffic, pollution, and high levels of travel and social mixing — our numbers have been the highest seen in years. What has also changed is that people don’t recognise symptoms early, they postpone treatment, cough for longer durations, and require more investigations and more treatment than earlier,” he explains. Data collected through screening programmes conducted by the Vaayu Chest and Sleep Speciality Clinic among traffic police, bus workers and construction workers reflects this trend. “We now have data from around 9,000 to 10,000 individuals, and nearly 29% of them show lung capacity issues. All of this reflects a progressive increase in pollution in the city,” he says.On the main sources of pollution, Dr Mehta says the problem lies in a mix of factors, with traffic playing a central role. “From a medical point of view, it’s a mix — all the problems lie in that mix. It starts with traffic, and there are multiple issues there. It’s not just the volume of traffic, but slow-moving traffic. When vehicles are idling or barely moving, pollutants concentrate in the air because engines continue to emit, leading to greater exposure and impact.”When pollution becomes routineThe Garden City doesn’t wake up to smog alerts or gas masks. Its air problem is quieter — steady, familiar, and easy to ignore. Its pollution story may lack the visual drama of northern Indian cities, but experts warn against equating visibility with risk. The damage here is cumulative, shaped by everyday exposure and gradual health impacts — the kind that rarely make headlines, but linger long after the traffic clears.About the AuthorGokul MGGokul MG is a senior digital content producer with the Times of India, Bengaluru desk. He is a writer with a soft spot for sports, Sunday leagues, urban legends, and the smell of popcorn at a matinee.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingiShowSpeed babyGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

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Surpur style of painting is an artistic tradition unique to Kalyana Karnataka region, comprising seven districts in the northeastern part of Karnataka. It has a history of about 400 years, says artist and history enthusiast Rehaman Patel. “It emerged during the rule of Bedar Nayaks, who ruled the Surpur kingdom between 1636 to 1858. Surpur kings, right from the founder Raja Gaddi Pidda Nayak and his successors like Hasarangi Pamanayaka, Immadi, Venkatappa Nayak and Mummadi Devendra Venkatappa Nayak encouraged the art form in their courts,” he says.The tradition, he says, peaked during the regime of Raja Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayak who ruled the kingdom between 1843 and 1858. “The art form lost its patronage after 1858,” he adds. The roots of original Surpur (or Shorapur) painting are a fascinating blend of survival, royal patronage and a unique “hybrid” aesthetic. Shorapur or Surapura is a historically significant town in Yadgir district, known for its role in resisting British rule. Surpur paintings didn’t emerge in a vacuum but likely was the result of artists fleeing a collapsing empire to find a new home in North Karnataka.”These paintings are believed to have gained popularity in the region when a group of painters migrated there following the disintegration of the Vijayanagara Empire after the Battle of Talikota in 1565,” says the online encyclopaedia managed by Bengaluru-based Museum of Art & Photography (MAP). The painting style bears strong similarities to Mysore and Tanjore styles, including the use of gesso, bright colours and embellishments such as gold leaf and semi-precious stones, according to the MAP website. The convergence of styles may go back to the turbulent years after the Battle of Talikota. When the Vijayanagara Empire collapsed, its master artists scattered, seeking new courts to support their craft. It is likely that Mysore welcomed some, Tanjore took in others, and a significant contingent eventually reached Surpur.Surpur paintings were initially done as murals or miniatures on white paper, wood and other surfaces. “Natural pigments, stone, leaf and soil were used to make miniatures. These were brought from Rajasthan. Now it’s also done on canvas, normally in the size 6×8, using acrylic paint,” says Rehaman. Though Nayaks preferred their portraits and those of deities, scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata too got priority in the works of their times, he adds.Banaiah Garudadri, considered as the master artist of Surpur paintings, was the principal artist at the court of Raja Venkatappa Nayaka. His works are on display at various museums. “Scholar Jaya Appaswamy has recognised his legacy in her works. The Surpur style shaped by Garudadri blends Deccani, Mughal and South Indian aesthetics, standing apart from Mysore and Thanjavur traditions through its spiritual depth and distinctive visual language,” points out Rehaman.The second Banaiah Garudadri was posthumously honoured with the National Award for Master Craftsmen in 1967 by the President of India.Artist Vinod Raghuveer says that Surpur art was studied by veteran artists like Vijay Hagargundagi for decades. “Despite its limitation of being practised by just a few artists, Surpur paintings can be seen hanging in Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad, Jaganmohan Palace in Mysuru and National Craft Museum in Delhi.”The office of development commissioner (handicrafts) brought out a coffee-table book on Surpur paintings in 2025.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingiShowSpeed babyGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Surpur style of painting is an artistic tradition unique to Kalyana Karnataka region, comprising seven districts in the northeastern part of Karnataka. It has a history of about 400 years, says artist and history enthusiast Rehaman Patel. “It emerged during the rule of Bedar Nayaks, who ruled the Surpur kingdom between 1636 to 1858. Surpur kings, right from the founder Raja Gaddi Pidda Nayak and his successors like Hasarangi Pamanayaka, Immadi, Venkatappa Nayak and Mummadi Devendra Venkatappa Nayak encouraged the art form in their courts,” he says.The tradition, he says, peaked during the regime of Raja Nalvadi Venkatappa Nayak who ruled the kingdom between 1843 and 1858. “The art form lost its patronage after 1858,” he adds. The roots of original Surpur (or Shorapur) painting are a fascinating blend of survival, royal patronage and a unique “hybrid” aesthetic. Shorapur or Surapura is a historically significant town in Yadgir district, known for its role in resisting British rule. Surpur paintings didn’t emerge in a vacuum but likely was the result of artists fleeing a collapsing empire to find a new home in North Karnataka.”These paintings are believed to have gained popularity in the region when a group of painters migrated there following the disintegration of the Vijayanagara Empire after the Battle of Talikota in 1565,” says the online encyclopaedia managed by Bengaluru-based Museum of Art & Photography (MAP). The painting style bears strong similarities to Mysore and Tanjore styles, including the use of gesso, bright colours and embellishments such as gold leaf and semi-precious stones, according to the MAP website. The convergence of styles may go back to the turbulent years after the Battle of Talikota. When the Vijayanagara Empire collapsed, its master artists scattered, seeking new courts to support their craft. It is likely that Mysore welcomed some, Tanjore took in others, and a significant contingent eventually reached Surpur.Surpur paintings were initially done as murals or miniatures on white paper, wood and other surfaces. “Natural pigments, stone, leaf and soil were used to make miniatures. These were brought from Rajasthan. Now it’s also done on canvas, normally in the size 6×8, using acrylic paint,” says Rehaman. Though Nayaks preferred their portraits and those of deities, scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata too got priority in the works of their times, he adds.Banaiah Garudadri, considered as the master artist of Surpur paintings, was the principal artist at the court of Raja Venkatappa Nayaka. His works are on display at various museums. “Scholar Jaya Appaswamy has recognised his legacy in her works. The Surpur style shaped by Garudadri blends Deccani, Mughal and South Indian aesthetics, standing apart from Mysore and Thanjavur traditions through its spiritual depth and distinctive visual language,” points out Rehaman.The second Banaiah Garudadri was posthumously honoured with the National Award for Master Craftsmen in 1967 by the President of India.Artist Vinod Raghuveer says that Surpur art was studied by veteran artists like Vijay Hagargundagi for decades. “Despite its limitation of being practised by just a few artists, Surpur paintings can be seen hanging in Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad, Jaganmohan Palace in Mysuru and National Craft Museum in Delhi.”The office of development commissioner (handicrafts) brought out a coffee-table book on Surpur paintings in 2025.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123PhotostoriesGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail termsRaghav Chadha’s favourite Cheesy Mushroom Toast that is perfect for breakfastFrom Kate Hudson to Kim Kardashian: Hollywood stars who built successful businesses beyond acting123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingiShowSpeed babyGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

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