Shivamogga SP suggests students to build ‘fort of knowledge’ and become law-abiding citizens

Shivamogga SP B. Nikhil addressing students after inaugurating The Hindu in School Science Fest and Spark Quest held in Shivamogga on Friday.

Shivamogga Superintendent of Police B. Nikhil on Friday appealed to students to build a “fort of knowledge” by acquiring knowledge through books and to become law-abiding citizens.

Mr. Nikhil was addressing students after inaugurating The Hindu In School Science Fest - Avishkar and Ramanujan Spark Quest, organised in association with Excellent Moodubidire in Shivamogga.

Recalling that kings once built forts to protect their territories from enemies, he said students today should build a strong fort of knowledge. “If you acquire any valuable material, someone can steal it from you. Build a fort of knowledge that nobody can take away from you,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of reading newspapers daily, Mr. Nikhil said he owed much of what he had achieved to The Hindu. He had picked up the habit of reading newspapers as a schoolboy, and it had helped him greatly. He pointed to the paper’s range of coverage, from local, State and national news to world affairs, opinion, business and sports. Its credibility, he said, had endured before and after Independence, withstanding every test in nearly 150 years.

The officer also stressed the importance of communicating in English. Many brilliant students from tier-2 and tier-3 cities fall behind because they lack communication skills, he observed, adding that interviews hinge on how candidates present themselves. “Start speaking in English and don’t worry about mistakes. Make mistakes now, so you can succeed tomorrow. Our biggest teachers are our mistakes,” he said.

Speaking as a police officer, Mr. Nikhil said the law treats everyone equally and must be respected equally by all. “There is always a lawful way to celebrate or protest. Students should not blindly follow individuals or fall prey to manipulation. They should use their own judgement,” he said.

He also warned students against falling into the trap of drugs and advised them to firmly say “beda, bro” to anything illegal.

Citing road accident figures, Mr. Nikhil said that of 358 deaths recorded, 150 were two-wheeler riders who could have survived had they worn helmets. He urged students to ensure that their parents and others around them wear helmets without fail.