Lokesh Promises New District Central Library for Vizag at Dandu Bazaar

Visakhapatnam: Education minister Nara Lokesh has pledged to prioritise the development of Visakhapatnam's library system. He promised immediate actions, including new construction projects, release of pending funds, and filling up of staff vacancies.

Responding to Visakhapatnam District Library chairman Vannemreddy Satish Kumar's appeal, Lokesh announced that the foundation stone for a new District Central Library building at Dandu Bazaar will be laid without delay. He agreed to establish a City Central Library in Visakhapatnam to cater to the growing demands of the metropolis, with the city becoming a centre for IT and artificial intelligence companies.

The minister mentioned that digital library systems meeting international standards will be introduced to benefit students and unemployed youth preparing for competitive examinations. He underlined that the state government is committed to transform Andhra Pradesh into a "Knowledge Hub."

The District Library chairman highlighted the urgent need for modern facilities, including free Wi-Fi, updated study materials, and improved infrastructure. He sought creation of 10 digital libraries in agency areas and a national-level Telugu Digital Library to consolidate educational and knowledge resources across the state.

Another significant concern the chairman raised is the shortage of staff, with 87 of the 132 sanctioned posts remaining vacant. The chairman requested permission to appoint at least 30 outsourced staff to ensure uninterrupted services.

Satish Kumar informed the minister about the organisation's financial challenges, including cess arrears exceeding ₹244.05 crore owed to it by local bodies for over 16 years, along with government annual grants of ₹30.02 crore that have been pending since the 2008–09 fiscal year.

Lokesh assured that measures would be taken to release the funds mentioned promptly.