Lokbharti Gramvidyapith Sanosara
Lokbharti Gramvidyapith Sanosara
Established: 1953
Location: Sanosara Village, Taluka Sihor, District Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India
Founder: Shri Nanabhai Bhatt, a Gandhian and freedom fighter
Inaugurated by: Shri Kaka Saheb Kalelkar
Website: lokbharatiuniversity.edu.in
Lokbharti Gramvidyapith embodies Mahatma Gandhi's principles of Nai Talim—integrating head, hand, and heart in education. The institution emphasizes a holistic approach, blending introspective knowledge (Vidya) with practical skills (Avidya), fostering self-reliant and socially responsible individuals. lokbharti.org
"विद्यां च अविद्यां च यस्तद् वेदोभयं सह।
अविद्यया मृत्युं तीर्त्वा विद्ययाऽमृतमश्नुते॥"
This verse from the Isha Upanishad reflects the dual pursuit of knowledge:
Avidya (अविद्या): Practical knowledge and skills for livelihood, enabling individuals to navigate the material world.
Vidya (विद्या): Spiritual wisdom leading to self-realization and liberation.
The mantra signifies that by integrating both forms of knowledge, one transcends the cycle of birth and death, attaining immortality.
At Lokbharti Gramvidyapith, this mantra is not merely recited but is the guiding principle of its educational approach:
Integration of Vidya and Avidya: Courses and activities are designed to balance intellectual learning with practical skills, fostering holistic development.
Experiential Learning: Students engage in hands-on activities like agriculture, animal husbandry, and community service, embodying Gandhiji's vision of 'Nai Talim'.
Community Living: The residential setup encourages cooperative living, self-reliance, and character building.
Spiritual and Ethical Growth: Daily prayers, cultural programs, and ethical teachings nurture the spiritual and moral fabric of students.lokbharti.org
Lokbharti Gramvidyapith, established in 1953, is India's first residential institution focused on rural higher education. Located in Sanosara village, near Sihor in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat, it embodies the principles of Mahatma Gandhi's Nai Talim—integrating head, hand, and heart in education. The institution was founded by Shri Nanabhai Bhatt, a prominent Gandhian and educationist. Before establishing Lokbharti, he initiated several educational ventures:
1910: Established Dakshinamurti Vidyarthi Bhavan in Bhavnagar.
1938: Founded Gram Dakshinamurti in Ambala, focusing on basic education.
1953: Launched Lokbharti Gramvidyapith in Sanosara, aiming to provide rural higher education.
The campus spans 165 acres, situated on the banks of the Sindri River, surrounded by hills and reservoirs. Approximately 750 students reside in 10 hostels, with 70 faculty members and their families living on-site, creating a close-knit community.
Academic Programs
Lokbharti offers a range of programs focusing on rural development and practical skills:
Undergraduate:
BRS (Bachelor of Rural Study)
Bachelor of Vocational (B.Voc.) in Agro-Food Processing.
B.Voc. in Natural Organic Farming.
B.Voc. in Digital Marketing.
B.Voc. in Information Technology.
Skill: B.Com. in Banking, Finance, Account & Taxation.
B.B.A.
Postgraduate:
Master of Rural Studies (MRS).
PG Diploma in Seed Production Science and Technology.
Ph.D. in English and Rural Studies.
The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, integrating theory with practical application.
The Goshala focuses on conserving the indigenous Gir cow breed through scientific breeding and artificial insemination programs. It serves as a live laboratory for students, providing practical experience in dairy development and animal husbandry. lokbharti.org
Lokbharti's wheat research center is renowned for developing the 'Lok Bold' wheat variety, characterized by exceptionally large grains. This initiative has garnered international recognition, including appreciation from Nobel laureate Dr. Norman Borlaug. lokbharatiuniversity.edu.in