March 14, New Delhi – Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed the 9th Convocation of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh in Dharamshala today. Praising Himachal Pradesh as Dev Bhoomi (Land of the Gods) and Veer Bhoomi (Land of Heroes), he said the state has made significant contributions to the nation's armed forces and is also known for its rich hospitality, vibrant culture, and enduring traditions.
Referring to India's academic legacy, the Vice President highlighted ancient centers of learning such as Nalanda University and Takshashila, saying they flourished because of the wisdom, scholarship, and intellectual evolution of their teachers. He said the gurus and acharyas of these institutions were lifelong learners who refined their knowledge through debate, dialogue, and research, creating an environment where ideas flourished and civilizations advanced. In the same spirit, he emphasized that modern universities must prioritize faculty development and promote innovation in teaching, interdisciplinary research, and global collaboration.
The Vice President said that the Central University of Himachal Pradesh is enthusiastically implementing the National Education Policy 2020 and has introduced subjects related to Indian Knowledge Traditions, fostering a new educational culture with a fresh perspective. He appreciated the university's initiative to translate several works into Dogri and Hindi literature into Punjabi, noting that its focus on "Swadeshi Chintan" (Indigenous thinking) and Indian research methods reflects renewed confidence in India's intellectual traditions.
He stressed the need for greater collaboration between higher education institutions of the Central and State Governments. Partnerships through joint research, shared faculty expertise, digital resources, and academic exchanges, he said, can build a larger community of learning and contribute to a globally competitive higher education ecosystem for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Highlighting government initiatives such as Startup India and Make in India, the Vice President said they have opened new avenues for young innovators. He also appreciated the university for encouraging innovation among youth and for its "Community Lab" initiative, through which students and faculty engage with nearby communities and gain an understanding of rural realities.
Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he said transforming India into a developed nation by the centenary of independence will require economic growth, social inclusion, technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and ethical leadership. He added that students and youth are among the most important stakeholders in realising this vision and emphasised that development must be inclusive so that no state or section of society is left behind.
Appreciating the university's initiatives to create a drug-free campus, the Vice President said drugs adversely affect youth, society, and the nation, and urged greater awareness against drug abuse. He also called upon the youth to commit their knowledge to the welfare of society, live for the betterment of the nation, say "No to Drugs," and keep the nation first — Rashtra Pratham.
At the convocation, more than 700 meritorious students were awarded degrees and medals, with a majority being women. Out of 32 gold medallists, 23 were young women, reflecting the growing empowerment and contribution of women to the nation's progress.
(Source: Vice President's Secretariat)
