The Rural Degree College was started in June 1955 by late Sri S. Kariappa, a true Gandhian. The College stood up for higher education vying with colleges that were few and far between in those days. The early days of the college were adventuresome with primitive facilities. People of the Taluk were still apprehensive about higher education and only a handful of girl students enrolled while renowned educationists were full of admiration and had a special place for Sri S. Kariappa in their hearts, and they supported him. Sri. S Kariappa remained bachelor dedicating his life for the institution and society.

The college truly became a beacon of enlightenment. Students from every corner of the taluk and districts as well as neighboring taluks streamed in, in quest of learning.