Why in News

• The Gram Panchayat Atal Gyan Kendra initiative of the Kullu administration, launched in last year.
• As many as 25 Atal Gyan Kendras have been established while the process to open 25 more libraries in panchayats is going on.
• Inspired by DC Ashutosh Garg’s initiative of opening libraries (Atal Gyan Kendras).
• These kendras provide a 24-hour library facility to students near their homes.
• The students also get free Internet facility to prepare for competitive examinations.
• To increase competition among panchayats, rewards have been announced for outstanding kendras.
• The administration has announced a reward of Rs 3 lakh for the panchayat that secures the first position, Rs 2 lakh for the runnerup and Rs 1 lakh for the third position holder.