Education Should Prioritize Character Development Over Merely Professional Achievements: Rajnath Singh

Tumakuru (Karnataka), April 1 (NationPress) Stressing the importance of character development, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remarked on Tuesday that the core aim of education should be character enhancement. “I believe that the role of professional educational institutions should extend beyond merely ensuring students' success in their careers.”

He pointed out that the genuine purpose of education should focus on character building.

During his inaugural speech at Siddaganga Mutt in Tumakuru, Karnataka, on the 118th birth anniversary and Guruvandana program of the late Shivakumara Swamiji, Rajnath Singh further stated, “Education devoid of values may foster artificial intelligence, but it fails to nurture emotional intelligence. It can produce guided missiles, but it cannot avert the youth from being misled.”

“We can create advanced computers, but if the operators lack moral values, they risk becoming degraded individuals who may act against humanity. For life to hold meaning, the educational framework must be grounded in values and ideals,” he emphasized.

Discussing the ‘guru parampara’ (teacher-disciple tradition), he noted that India boasts a rich philosophical legacy, with gurus at the core of numerous traditions. Many of these traditions are rooted in the wisdom of gurus and embody eternal truths without beginning or end.

“No one can achieve greatness with a limited mindset,” Rajnath Singh remarked.

He also mentioned, “A nation possesses its own identity and character. The history of India is deeply intertwined with spirituality and service to humanity. We must preserve these values while also pursuing economic prosperity and material goals. However, spirituality and humanity should remain intact.”

“I believe that broadmindedness aligns with spirituality. A person with a vast and open mind is genuinely spiritual. It was this broadmindedness that enabled the late Shivakumara Swamiji to establish such a vast institution and serve millions,” he stated.

“In mathematical terms, we can assert that the circumference of the mind is directly proportional to the level of happiness. And the circumference of the mind is boundless,” he added.

“Although the late Shivakumara Swamiji is no longer with us physically, his spiritual presence can still be felt. When I visited his temple (Samadhi), I sensed a profound spiritual vibration. There is something extraordinary about this place compared to other mutts. This is why I felt a strong presence of spiritual energy here,” he noted.

He commended the individuals at the mutt for their commitment to upholding the ideals of the late Swamiji. “I congratulate each of you for perpetuating his legacy,” he said.

The late Swamiji enriched the cultural heritage of this nation. His contributions to social welfare continue to inspire us all. “The life of a saint is dedicated to society, not oneself. This is evident in the life of Shivakumara Swamiji. For the past 600 years, this mutt has engaged in social service,” Rajnath Singh remarked.

He praised the mutt for advancing the Gurukul tradition without any discrimination based on caste or creed. It offers education to over 10,000 children free of charge, providing both residential and food facilities, he stated.

“I have been informed that visually impaired students also benefit from free education here. Furthermore, the mutt operates a Sanskrit college to promote the study of the language, which is commendable. We all recognize that Sanskrit is a scientific language, and its influence spans many countries globally,” he noted.

Mentioning Sanskrit’s presence in South Asia and Southeast Asia, he said, “Nepal’s national emblem features the phrase ‘Janani, Janmabhoomischa Swargadapi Gariyasi,’ which comes from the Valmiki Ramayana. It translates to ‘Mother and motherland are greater than heaven.’ Many such instances exist throughout South Asia and Southeast Asia.”

“The term Sanskrit means ‘polished’ or ‘refined.’ If the etymology of the language is so rich, the language itself must be even greater. No one should find it hard to comprehend. I commend your efforts to support and preserve the Sanskrit language,” he added.

Quoting the Rigveda, Rajnath Singh remarked that a true saint is one who works not just for personal spiritual growth but also for the welfare of the world. A saint ensures the triumph of righteousness and the elimination of evil. “When we reflect on late Shivakumara Swamiji’s life, we observe that he devoted himself entirely to serving humanity. He perfectly exemplifies the definition of a saint,” he concluded.