Udupi, June 2026 — The National Industrial Training Institute (NITI) in Barkur has once again claimed the top position in the Udupi District ITI grading for the academic year 2026–27, marking its third successive year at the top of the district rankings.
The grading, conducted by the Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship at the national level, evaluates institutions across parameters including institutional quality, student enrollment, academic standards, and examination results.
Principal Venkatesh Kramadhari credited the achievement to the combined efforts of students, parents, and both teaching and non-teaching staff. He also acknowledged the role played by the institution's governing body, the Barkur Educational Society, whose leadership includes President Shantaram Shetty, Vice Presidents Vittal Shetty Shedikodlu and Gopal Naik, Secretary Ashok Kumar Shetty — a retired headmaster and National Award recipient — Treasurer A. Krishna Hebbar, Administrative Coordinator retired Professor Archibald Furtado, and Director B. Ramachandra Kamath.
The institution's Alumni Association also drew recognition for its contributions to infrastructure development, including the construction of a playground and compound wall. The association is headed by President Nagaraj Shetty, owner of Malnad Cashew Industries.
The Barkur National ITI offers vocational training under the national ITI framework and is managed by the Barkur Educational Society.