Srinagar, Feb 26 (NationPress) The Vice President, C.P. Radhakrishnan, delivered a keynote speech during the 21st convocation of Kashmir University on Thursday at the main Hazratbal campus in Srinagar. He commenced his speech by using the Kashmiri language and inquired about the audience's well-being.

“I urge you not to use the phrases ‘Mera Kashmir’ or ‘Tumhara Kashmir’, but rather always refer to it as ‘Hamara Kashmir’,” the Vice President emphasized, addressing the graduating students.

He shared that he has been friends with both Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for over three decades.

“Today, I find joy for three primary reasons: our state’s education minister is a woman, the university's vice chancellor is a woman, and the majority of gold medal recipients are also women. Furthermore, this marks my inaugural visit here as the Vice President of the nation. My friend, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, extended the invitation to address you all, and I promptly accepted. The true legacy of this university lies in its graduates and their contributions to society,” he expressed.

The Vice President highlighted the notable alumni of the university, including high court judges, civil servants, doctors, engineers, and the first Chancellor, Dr. Karan Singh. He noted that the university has reached a milestone of 78 years in its historic journey. “Whether I am present or not, soon you will be celebrating your centenary,” he stated.

With campuses in Anantnag, Baramulla, and Kupwara, the university has broadened its influence. It boasts an A++ accreditation from NAAC and holds the eighth position among public universities in India. Since 2019, more than 10,700 research papers from the university have been published.

“Dear graduates, today is a celebration for you, but it is also a tribute to your parents, who have invested their resources to support you. This convocation is not just a ceremony; it's a day built on patience, hope, and opportunity. You are graduating at a pivotal moment when the world is evolving rapidly. The changes you will encounter in 2026 will be distinct from the world you experienced when you began your journey at the university. Change is the only constant. India is transforming from an innovation seeker to an innovation provider. The essence of technology transcends mere progress,” he remarked.

He also discussed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's innovative initiatives such as startups and Make in India. “I encourage you to concentrate on ‘Swadeshi’ innovations. We need not harbor concerns; we must shed our colonial mentality. The Prime Minister has inspired us with the mantra ‘Mera Bharat Mahan’. Initially, the cost of the Covid vaccination was not Rs 7,500 but rather 7500 US dollars. We managed to provide the vaccine at no cost to our citizens and even extended it to other nations. Modiji did not seek patents,” he noted.

The Vice President urged the graduates to steer clear of narcotics and to help those around them to overcome the challenges of drug abuse.

He cautioned the youth against excessive screen time. “Everything must have its limits. As you transition into life, you will face inquiries that are not part of your syllabus or university education. Challenges will test your patience; you must demonstrate resilience, and failures will test your courage; you must be brave,” he advised the graduates.

In conclusion, he wished everyone success and expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor, the Chief Minister, the Vice Chancellor, and all those who made this day memorable.

Earlier, Vice Chancellor Nilofer Khan reported that the university was founded in 1948 as J&K University and was later split into Jammu University and Kashmir University in 1969.

“Throughout its 78-year history, the university has embarked on a path of ambition, achievement, and excellence. During today's convocation, a total of 59,558 degrees were conferred, including 44,910 undergraduate degrees, 13,545 postgraduate degrees, 465 degrees in MD, M.S., M.Ch., 638 MPhil degrees, and 168 PhDs. A total of 239 gold medals were awarded, with 186 going to female scholars. The university comprises 14 schools, 84 teaching departments, and three satellite campuses in Anantnag, Baramulla, and Kupwara. There are 209 affiliated and constituent colleges offering degrees in medicine, engineering, and other fields.

“The University of Kashmir stands as the oldest university in J&K, having obtained NAAC A++ accreditation and is ranked 34th in the NIRF rankings. It is among the top eight State Public Universities in India. Our alumni include Padma awardees, high court judges, civil servants, journalists, and various professionals. Recently, one of our faculty members and alumni, Prof. Shafi Shauq, was honored with the Padma Shri award. Our student body also includes international students from countries such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Malaysia, and others,” the Vice Chancellor concluded in her report.