Vice President highlights women’s empowerment, drug

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday addressed the 9th convocation of Central University of Himachal Pradesh in Dharamshala, praising the state as both “Dev Bhoomi” and “Veer Bhoomi” and noting its significant contribution to the nation’s armed forces. He also lauded Himachal Pradesh for its rich hospitality, vibrant culture and enduring traditions while urging universities to prioritise faculty development, innovation in teaching and interdisciplinary research to strengthen India’s higher education ecosystem.

Referring to India’s academic heritage, he said ancient centres of learning such as Nalanda University and Takshashila thrived because of constant intellectual evolution and scholarly debate. Highlighting modern educational reforms, he noted that the university is implementing the National Education Policy 2020 and introducing courses on Indian Knowledge Traditions. He also appreciated the institution’s efforts to translate works into Dogri and Punjabi, saying such initiatives promote confidence in India’s intellectual traditions and support the idea of “Swadeshi Chintan.”

The Vice President emphasised the need for greater collaboration between Central and state universities through joint research, faculty exchange and shared digital resources to create a broader learning ecosystem. He also praised initiatives like Startup India and Make in India for opening new opportunities for young innovators and commended the university’s “Community Lab” programme, which connects students and faculty with nearby communities to better understand rural realities.

Highlighting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he said transforming India into a developed nation by the centenary of independence would require economic growth, technological advancement, environmental sustainability, social inclusion and ethical leadership. He stressed that students and youth would play a crucial role in achieving this vision and that development must remain inclusive so that no state or section of society is left behind.

Commending the university’s initiative to create a drug-free campus, he urged young people to stay away from substance abuse and commit themselves to the nation’s progress. “Always say no to drugs and keep the nation first — Rashtra Pratham,” he said. At the convocation, more than 700 meritorious students were awarded degrees and medals, with women accounting for a majority. Out of 32 gold medalists, 23 were women, reflecting the growing empowerment and contribution of women to the country’s development.

Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta, state Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, MPs Rajeev Bhardwaj and Anurag Singh Thakur, Chancellor Harmohinder Singh Bedi and Vice Chancellor Sat Prakash Bansal were among those present at the ceremony, along with faculty members, students and other dignitaries.