Mandya MLA announces scholarships for top girl students

Mandya: In a proud moment for Mandya district, which climbed from 18th to 12th place in SSLC exam rankings this year, MLA P Ravi Kumar announced an incentive to encourage academic excellence among young girls. The MLA pledged Rs 1 lakh each to the top-scoring girl students in Arts, Commerce and Science streams of Government Women's Autonomous Degree College — putting a total of Rs 3 lakh from his personal salary. During the 2024–2025 Annual Day celebrations, he also committed Rs 1 lakh towards the maintenance of the college hostel.

Kumar urged final-year degree students of the college, which comes under Mandya University, to strive for excellence and bring further pride to the institution. He also encouraged young women to take an active interest in politics, assume leadership roles in governance, and pursue higher education to reach top positions in society. He announced plans to introduce free coaching for competitive exams in Mandya to support aspirants from the district in securing top administrative positions.

Superintendent of police Mallikarjuna Baladandi motivated students by emphasising the value of consistent effort and passion in achieving success, regardless of their chosen career paths. Theatre artist and film actor Mandya Ramesh highlighted the achievements of Indian women on the global stage, citing astronaut Sunita Williams and female athletes who brought laurels to the nation. Expressing concern over female foeticide, he called for using theatre as a medium to challenge social injustice and promote gender equality.

Actress and producer Sharmila Mandre, who began her film career at 16, encouraged students to enjoy their college days while also planning their futures.

Winners of college-level sports competitions were honoured with prizes. Gururaj Prabhu K, principal; Ningaraju HS, director, Cultural Forum; Mangalam KM, treasurer; Lokesh KR, sports director, and Pushpalatha, NSS officer, were also present.