Andhra govt renames Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Pratibha Award as YSR Vidya Award; is it fair to do so?

Vijayawada, November 5: Andhra Pradesh State government yesterday issued orders of renaming Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Pratibha Award as YSR Vidya Award. However, the decision is being condemned from various arenas for weighing the YSR party superior to the national leader. 

 

District toppers in Class X exams from government schools are presented the awards on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, which is celebrated as National Education Day on November 11. The award carries a merit certificate and a memento apart from scholarship for students to pursue higher education.

 

National Secretary to the BJP Andhra Pradesh Sunil Deodhar condemned the decision saying that this decision is the humiliation of India’s world famous scientist, legendary national leader and India’s former president Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The purpose of awarding students in his name was that he was a lovable and inspiring personality for students. This decision must be taken back and the award must be given in the name of Dr. Kalam only.

 

Initially, Pratibha Awards were given to meritorious students from both government and private schools. Later, the scheme was renamed as Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Pratibha Puraskars and, as per the revised guidelines, the scheme was restricted to only government school students.