P.P. Sathyan

Established in 1993, the P.N. Panicker Foundation embodies the visionary legacy of P.N. Panicker, the architect of Kerala’s Library and Literacy Movement. Led by N. Balagopal, Panicker’s son and the vice chairman of the foundation, it focusses on inclusive growth aligned with technological advancements. The foundation organizes Jan Vigyan Vikas Yatras, promoting people-focussed inclusive growth driven by knowledge, technology and innovation. Pioneering e-reading among rural masses since 2002, it established 25,000 rural home e-libraries in 2010. Recognizing its commendable work, the Government of Kerala established the autonomous P.N. Panicker Vigyan Vikas Kendra. The foundation’s vision is to foster overall human development through the philosophy of ‘read and grow’, aiming to enhance lives across the country through education, skill development, health and technology-driven programmes. The cultural and educational yatras serve as vibrant mediums, reaching every corner of the country. The P.N. Panicker Foundation has been honoured with the prestigious National Award for outstanding contributions in Science and Technology Communication (Category A) for the year 2021.