Anke Gowda (Photo: Screengrab)

NEW DELHI: Anke Gowda has been awarded the Padma Shri 2026 for his contribution to promoting literacy and preserving knowledge through Pustakamane, India’s largest free-access library.Gowda, a former bus conductor from Karnataka, founded Pustakamane with the aim of making books accessible to people from remote and marginalised communities. Over the years, the initiative has grown into a vast repository of more than two million books in over 20 languages, including rare manuscripts and historical texts.An accompanying video released as part of the Padma Awards announcements traces Gowda’s journey from working in public transport to building a nationwide model for free access to books and learning. The video highlights his efforts to take reading materials to underserved regions and to use education as a tool for social empowerment.According to official announcements, Gowda’s recognition aligns with the broader focus of the Padma Awards 2026 on honouring unsung heroes, particularly from Dalit, tribal and backward communities. This year’s awards have placed emphasis on grassroots contributions in areas such as education, healthcare, sanitation and sustainability.The Padma Shri is India’s fourth-highest civilian honour and is conferred for distinguished service across various fields. Gowda’s work through Pustakamane has been cited as a significant effort in expanding access to knowledge and preserving literary heritage while promoting inclusive education.