Jaipur, March 18 (NationPress) Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade asserted that women are not the abala (weak female), but rather the “empowered females” (sabala). He stressed that when women embrace this belief, society can advance swiftly towards development.

During the 11th Convocation Ceremony of a private university held on Wednesday, the Governor declared that women stand on equal footing with anyone else.

Reflecting on the bravery of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, he pointed out her defiance against the British at merely twenty years old, emphasizing that age should not deter one's resolve to overcome challenges.

The Governor encouraged students to take initiative in all aspects of life, fostering an environment of positivity and courage.

He underlined the necessity of enhancing intellectual capabilities in universities and urged students to engage in their education with determination and commitment. He emphasized that achieving national prosperity should remain our primary objective.

Commenting on Lord Macaulay’s introduction of the English educational framework in India, which he claimed cultivated a “slave mentality,” the Governor observed that its repercussions lingered even post-independence.

He acknowledged that the Government of India has enacted the New Education Policy to rejuvenate India's rich indigenous knowledge systems and restore the nation as a ‘Vishwa Guru’ (global leader). Under this initiative, he highlighted the necessity for an educational structure that empowers the nation’s extensive workforce, represented by its “240 crore hands”, to actively contribute to national development.

On this occasion, Governor Bagade awarded an honorary D.Litt. degree to the State’s Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, in recognition of her exemplary contributions to social and community service.

He also presented gold medals and degrees to outstanding students.

Expressing her appreciation, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari remarked that education serves as the fundamental cornerstone of national development.

She highlighted the significance of girls’ education, asserting that genuine societal advancement can only be achieved when women attain self-sufficiency.

She advocated for ensuring equitable educational access and opportunities for women.

Diya Kumari acknowledged the rapid progress women are making in various domains and encouraged female students to seize emerging opportunities.

Paying homage to the university’s founder, the late Ashok Gupta, she noted that the establishment of an institution dedicated to women’s education was a visionary and commendable effort.

Chancellor Amit Gupta and Vice-Chancellor T.N. Mathur also offered insights into the university’s initiatives.