-News : Manjunath Naik, Pics : Vishwas Studio Barkur.
The Annual Sports Day of National Industrial Training Institute (NITI), Heradi–Barkur, a unit of the Barkur Educational Society (R), was celebrated with great enthusiasm on 12th March 2026 at 10.00 a.m. at the NITI Grounds, Heradi–Barkur. The event witnessed the gracious presence of management members, dignitaries, staff and students, making it a memorable occasion in the institute’s calendar.
The programme commenced with a prayer hymn “Nee Belakagi Baa…”, soulfully led by Lecturer Ms. Ashwini Achar, invoking divine blessings for the success of the sports meet and the well-being of all participants.
Principal Prof. Venkatesh Kramadhari delivered the welcome address, warmly greeting the dignitaries, guests and students. On the occasion, he gratefully remembered the generous sponsors of the sports prizes in the blessed memory of the proud old student late Ranjeet Kumar, sponsored by his batch mates (2012–14) and friends.
The Annual Sports Meet was formally inaugurated by Sri H. Vittal Shetty Shedikodlu, Vice-President of the Barkur Educational Society, by lighting the traditional lamp. In his inaugural message, he extended his best wishes to all participants and expressed hope that the sports meet would inspire students to cultivate discipline, teamwork and determination.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Ashok Kumar Shetty, Secretary of the Barkur Educational Society, reminded students that the playground teaches two invaluable lessons — collective effort and democratic values. He remarked that the playground is truly the cradle where students learn the spirit of “live and let live.”
In his message, Sri Rajaram Shetty, Correspondent of SVVN English Medium High School, encouraged the youngsters to imbibe the true spirit of sportsmanship, discipline and healthy competition, which are essential qualities for success in life.
Prof. P. Archibald Furtado, Administrative Coordinator of the Barkur Educational Society, highlighted that NITI Barkur has always believed in the holistic development of students, giving equal importance not only to academics but also to extra-curricular and intra-curricular activities that mould character and leadership.
Sri B. Ramachandra Kamath, Correspondent of NITI Barkur, expressed his happiness that the goodwill and reputation of this temple of learning continue to soar high. He hoped that the institute would flourish further and attract more admissions in the coming years.
The inaugural function was presided over by Sri B. Shantharam Shetty, President of the Barkur Educational Society. On this occasion, he was felicitated with a traditional shawl and memento in recognition of his recent honour — the prestigious Karnataka State Sahakara Ratna Award 2025, awarded for his outstanding and selfless service to society.
In his presidential address, Sri Shantharam Shetty congratulated Principal Prof. Kramadhari and his dedicated staff for leading the institution towards greater success, particularly highlighting the 100% placement achieved by past students of the institute. He advised the students to make the best use of the opportunities available to them and strive for excellence in all walks of life.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Lecturer Mr. Bhaskar Upadya, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, staff and students for their presence and encouragement.
Among those present on the occasion were former Correspondent Sri Vishvanath Shetty, Sri Ratnakar Shetty (Correspondent, National Heradi), HM Sri Udaya Shetty of Hanehalli, HM Sri A. Ratnakar Shetty of Heradi, Mrs Jyothi Shetty, Sri Jayananda Poojary, Sri Gokuldas Kamath, and several members of the Barkur Educational Society. As Emcee of the inaugural ceremony Mr Manjunath Naik acknowledged, their gracious presence and encouragement added enthusiasm to the young participants.
The sports meet began thereafter with great excitement, with students actively participating in various athletic events, reflecting the institute’s commitment to discipline, teamwork and all-round development.
