Nagaland Educator Hanrenla K Wins National Award for Hanging Libraries

Hanging Libraries have brought national attention to an innovative educational initiative led by Nagaland educator Hanrenla K. As the Coordinator of the Education Block Resource Centre (EBRC), Pungro, in Kiphire district, she introduced this simple approach across government schools to make reading materials more accessible to students. The initiative encourages children to explore books regularly by keeping them within easy reach. Recognising her contribution to educational innovation, the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) honoured Hanrenla K with the National Award for Innovation and Good Practices in Educational Administration.

Key Highlights

Educator: Hanrenla K.
Position: Coordinator, EBRC Pungro.
District: Kiphire, Nagaland.
Initiative: Hanging Libraries.
Schools Covered: 11 government schools.
Award: National Award for Innovation and Good Practices in Educational Administration.
Award Venue: New Delhi.

Hanrenla K Receives National Recognition

Hanrenla K works as the Coordinator of the Education Block Resource Centre (EBRC), Pungro, in Kiphire district. She received the national award for introducing an innovative approach that makes reading materials easier for students to access.

NIEPA selected Hanrenla K among 84 district- and block-level education officers from 22 States and Union Territories. The selection followed more than 300 nominations for the 2023–24 and 2024–25 award cycles.

The award ceremony took place during a national conference in New Delhi on September 2 and 3, 2026.

What Is Hanging Libraries?

The Hanging Libraries initiative focuses on making books more visible and accessible to students. Rather than relying only on a conventional library room, the initiative uses a simple setup where students can easily find and pick up books.

This approach can make reading a more regular part of school life. Students get an opportunity to explore books outside their usual textbooks, while schools can promote reading without needing a large library space.

The initiative has reached 11 government schools in Kiphire district.

Also Read: MAT September Registration 2026: Apply Online, Exam Date, Fee & Eligibility

Schools Covered

The initiative covers schools in several locations, including:

Pungro Town.
Pungro Village.
Zaonger.
Moya.
Penkim.
Khonjiri.
Metonger.
Fakim.
Iponger.
Khongsa.
Khongka.

How the Initiative Works

The idea behind Hanging Libraries is straightforward. Books remain within easy reach of students, allowing them to browse and select titles according to their interests.

The initiative aims to:

Encourage students to read regularly.
Improve access to books.
Create greater interest in reading.
Support learning beyond textbooks.
Make better use of available school spaces.

This simple model makes reading resources part of the everyday school environment rather than limiting them to a traditional library setting.

Support Behind the Initiative

Hanrenla’s work received support through collaboration between Books For All (BFA), Noida, the Piramal Foundation’s Aspirational Bharat Collaborative and EBRC Pungro.

The partnership helped provide reading resources to participating schools and supported the implementation of the Hanging Libraries initiative across the block.

The collaboration also shows how education departments and organisations can work together to introduce practical ideas that directly benefit students.

Why Hanrenla K’s Work Matters

The national recognition gives attention to an idea that started at the local level. Hanrenla’s work shows that improving students’ learning experiences does not always require complex solutions.

A simple change in how books are presented and accessed can encourage children to interact with reading material more often. The initiative also highlights the important role played by block-level education officers in identifying local needs and developing practical solutions.

NIEPA’s recognition further places the initiative among innovative practices in educational administration.

Conclusion

Hanrenla K’s national award is a proud moment for Nagaland’s education sector. Her Hanging Libraries initiative has brought reading materials closer to students across 11 government schools in Kiphire district.

The success of the initiative shows how a simple idea, when implemented thoughtfully, can create a more engaging reading environment for students. Her recognition by NIEPA also highlights the value of grassroots educational innovation and the contribution of educators working directly with schools.