Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday told students at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul in Katra that curiosity is the first lamp of knowledge, urging educators to nurture both values and scientific thinking in equal measure. He was addressing the foundation day celebration of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) and the annual day of the Gurukul.

On Curiosity and the Upanishadic Tradition

Speaking directly to students, L-G Sinha drew on classical Indian thought to make his case for intellectual openness. 'Curiosity is the first lamp of knowledge. In our tradition, asking questions has never been regarded as a weakness. The Upanishadic tradition is one of dialogue, reflection, and experience,' he said. He called on teachers to go beyond imparting information and to instil values and Samskara in their students.

Balancing Science and Values

The Lieutenant Governor framed progress as the product of two complementary forces. 'Science gives us speed, while values give us direction, and the balance between speed and direction is true progress,' he said. He welcomed the Gurukul's decision to incorporate modern subjects — particularly science and computer technology — into its curriculum, describing it as a model for institutions that seek to honour tradition without turning away from modernity.

He added that the journey of artificial intelligence and spirituality should proceed together, arguing that values must anchor technological advancement rather than be displaced by it.

Environmental Consciousness as a Way of Life

L-G Sinha urged both the Gurukul and the Shrine Board to make environmental responsibility a lived practice rather than a stated goal. He cited the Prithvi Sukta of the Atharvaveda as evidence that reverence for nature is embedded in India's oldest knowledge traditions. 'At a time when we are confronting the challenges of climate change, we need to study and understand our knowledge traditions along with modern scientific understanding,' he said, calling for concrete action on water conservation, energy conservation, tree plantation, and cleanliness.

Three Proposals for the Gurukul

The L-G outlined three specific initiatives he proposed for the institution. First, a Values and Science Innovation Centre to foster dialogue between Indian knowledge traditions and modern science. Second, a service and society campaign connecting students with communities through activities such as digital literacy, cleanliness drives, and environmental protection. Third, a future skills and ethical technology programme to prepare students for emerging technologies with a grounding in responsibility and ethics.

Shrine Board Achievements Recognised

L-G Sinha also appreciated the Shrine Board's recent efforts to enhance convenience, safety, and facilities for pilgrims visiting the shrine, describing the achievements as a reflection of dedication, discipline, and the spirit of service — qualities he called intrinsic to Sanatan culture. The event was attended by Mahamandleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Shrine Board members Dr Ashok Bhan, Lalit Bhasin, and Suresh Kumar Sharma; Padma awardee Prof. Vishwa Murti Shastri; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO of SMVDSB; Alok Kumar Maurya, Additional CEO; and faculty, parents, and students of the Gurukul.