Q. Who was the first poet awarded the title 'Rashtrakavi' by Madras Government?
Answer: M. Govinda Pai
Notes: In 1949, M. Govinda Pai became the first Kannada poet to receive the title 'Rashtrakavi' from the Madras Government. The title means 'National Poet' and was conferred under the recognition of the Central Government. This was a formal acknowledgment of his contribution to Kannada literature.