Amritsar, Jan 15 (NationPress) Concerned about the escalating issue of drug misuse among Punjab's youth, President Droupadi Murmu stated on Thursday that this challenge has intensified in recent years, predominantly impacting young individuals.

“This challenge affects not only health but also the social, economic, and moral frameworks of society. Implementing a sustainable solution is vital for a thriving community,” she remarked during her speech at the 50th golden jubilee convocation of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU).

She emphasized the essential role of educational institutions like GNDU in addressing this issue. “Every stakeholder within this university should exert maximum effort to steer the misguided youth towards a constructive path.”

The President noted that the upcoming two decades leading up to 2047 are crucial for transforming India into a developed nation. “The youth of today will significantly contribute to various sectors in the next twenty years.”

In her Hindi address, she acknowledged, “Punjab is primarily an agricultural state. There are vast opportunities for research and innovation in agribusiness here. I am pleased to learn that GNDU is actively pursuing advancements in this area.”

Expressing her joy in visiting the sacred city of Amritsar, she stated, “This city, renowned for the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, and Jallianwala Bagh, holds a cherished place in the hearts of all Indians. It is a privilege for you to study and teach at a university situated in a city rich in cultural and historical significance.”

A total of 463 students were honored with degrees and medals during the convocation, including 74 undergraduates, 102 postgraduates, 270 PhD degrees, and seven memorial medals.

Two distinguished individuals received honorary doctorates from the university: Padma Shri awardee Vikramjit Singh Sawhney, honored with the title of Doctor of Literature, and Jasvir Gill, awarded the title of Doctor of Engineering.

During the convocation, the President, who is on a two-day tour of the state, remarked, “This university was founded during the 500th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev-ji. His teachings and principles are the foundation of this institution. Guru Nanak Dev-ji’s wisdom is our collective heritage, guiding us towards the welfare of all humanity.”

“He imparted the profound message of ‘Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, and Vand Chhako’, which translates to meditate on God’s name, work diligently, and share with others. These values encourage compassion towards the marginalized and foster efforts for the welfare of all. By integrating these ideals into our lives, we can address many societal issues. I am delighted that GNDU is illuminating the path of education by adhering to the teachings of this great saint,” the President stated.

She acknowledged that Guru Nanak Dev advocated for gender equality. “Observing the preponderance of female students among degree and medal recipients today reassures me that GNDU is committed to empowering women, as per Guru Nanak Dev-ji’s teachings. It is crucial for society and the nation that women are afforded opportunities to advance confidently, and we must all work towards this.”

The President urged students to recognize that education is not only a pathway to employment but also a means of contributing to society and the nation.

She advised that they owe a debt to society, which facilitated their education. “Striving to uplift those who have been marginalized can be one way to repay this debt,” she stated.

The President will also attend the 21st convocation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jalandhar, on Friday. NIT Director Binod Kumar Kanaujia announced that degrees will be awarded to 1,452 students, including 1,011 BTech, 238 MTech, 21 MBA, 90 MSc, and 92 PhD students.