Vice President Radhakrishnan hails Andhra University’s legacy at centenary celebrations
Vice President India C. P. Radhakrishnan on Monday described Andhra University as a “melting pot of ideas and leadership” while addressing its centenary celebrations in Visakhapatnam.
Speaking at the event, VP Radhakrishnan said the university has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of students over the past 100 years and contributing significantly to nation-building. He noted that the institution has not only witnessed history but actively participated in shaping it.
Recalling the legacy of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a former Vice-Chancellor of the university, VP Radhakrishnan said his vision of education—focused on both intellect and character—continues to inspire the academic community. He also highlighted the association of eminent personalities such as Nobel laureate C. V. Raman and former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu with the city and the institution.
VP Radhakrishnan praised the rapid development of Andhra Pradesh under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, stating that the state is emerging as a major hub for investment and innovation. He noted that sectors such as IT, data centres, tourism and digital infrastructure are witnessing strong growth, with global technology companies like Google showing increasing interest in the region.
Referring to the decision to declare Amaravati as the permanent capital, the Vice President said it reflects the aspirations of the people and will provide administrative clarity and stability to the state.
Emphasising the broader vision of national development, VP Radhakrishnan echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that a “Viksit Bharat” can only be achieved through “Viksit States.” He added that Andhra Pradesh has emerged as one of the fastest-growing states, accounting for over 25 per cent of the country’s proposed investments in 2025–26 due to its investor-friendly policies and governance framework.
During the event, the Vice-President conferred Distinguished Alumni Awards on several prominent personalities, including M. Venkaiah Naidu, K. Hari Babu, Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao, B. V. R. Mohan Reddy, Satyanarayana Chava, Vijay Joshi and filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas, among others.
VP Radhakrishnan also released a commemorative coin, a stamp, and a coffee table book to mark the occasion, and witnessed the exchange of three Memorandums of Understanding between Andhra University and international as well as national institutions.
Among those present at the event were Andhra Pradesh Governor Abdul Nazeer, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, IT Minister Nara Lokesh, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, along with students, faculty and alumni.
Earlier in the day, the Vice-President offered prayers at the Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple and Arasavalli Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Srikakulam district.
