The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, delivered a speech at the 70th Annual Convocation of Panjab University in Chandigarh. He encouraged the students to work towards shaping the blueprint for a New India by 2047, the centenary of the nation’s independence. Emphasizing the importance of acting on brilliant ideas and utilizing one’s talents and potential, he urged the students to seize opportunities and contribute to the betterment of society.
As the Chancellor of Panjab University, the Vice-President conferred the Honoris Causa (Doctor of Literature) on Dr. Sudha N. Murty, a renowned educator and philanthropist, and the Honoris Causa (Doctor of Laws) on Shri Ranjan Gogoi, former Chief Justice of India and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha).
The Vice-President highlighted the responsibility of students to work for the greater good of all and keep the nation first. He praised the National Education Policy 2020 as a game-changer that is transforming education at all levels. He also mentioned the positive impact of systemic reforms and good governance measures in recent years, making India an attractive global destination for opportunities and investments.
Regarding digital transformation, the Vice-President mentioned that the IMF recognized India’s digital development as world-class, serving as a model for other nations. He cited examples such as Direct Benefit Transfers through schemes like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi and MUDRA, which reflect India’s changing governance model and its commitment to eliminating corruption.
Acknowledging the historic nature of the convocation, with Prof. Renu Vig being the first woman Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, the Vice-President called upon the university’s illustrious alumni to contribute to its further growth. He commended the university for its pursuit of excellence, including collaborations with foreign universities and participation in international projects like the High Energy Research Programme.
During his visit, the Vice-President held separate meetings with various stakeholders of Panjab University, including Senate Members, Syndicate Members, Students’ Union, Teachers Association, and Non-Teachers’ Association.
Several dignitaries, including the Governor of Punjab, Shri Banwarilal Purohit, the Governor of Haryana, Shri Bandaru Dattatreya, the Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Shri Som Prakash, the Hon’ble Minister of Education, Shri Harjot Singh Bains, the Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, Prof. Renu Vig, Dr. Sudha N. Murty, Shri Ranjan Gogoi, and others, were present at the event.
