Dharamshala, March 14 (NationPress) Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan delivered a significant address at the 9th Convocation of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh, emphasizing the vital contribution of students and young people in achieving the ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

The Vice President outlined that the aspiration of Viksit Bharat@2047 aims to elevate India to a developed nation by the hundredth anniversary of its independence. This transformation necessitates economic growth, social inclusion, technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and ethical leadership.

He pointed out that the youth are key players in bringing this vision to life.

Radhakrishnan stressed that the vision of Viksit Bharat must focus on inclusive development, ensuring that no region or community is left behind.

He referred to initiatives like Startup India and Make in India, which have opened fresh opportunities for young innovators.

The Vice President highlighted the necessity for enhanced collaboration between higher education institutions across both the Central and State Governments.

Such collaborations through joint research, shared faculty expertise, digital resources, and academic exchanges can cultivate a broader learning community, benefiting both students and scholars, ultimately contributing to a globally competitive higher education framework for a Viksit Bharat.

He commended the university for fostering innovation among its students and for its “Community Lab” initiative, which allows students and faculty to engage with local communities, thus enhancing outreach and helping students grasp the realities of rural India.

The Vice President noted that the Central University of Himachal Pradesh is actively implementing the National Education Policy 2020 and has introduced courses related to Indian Knowledge Traditions, which are nurturing a new educational culture with an innovative perspective.

He also praised the university’s efforts to translate various works into Dogri and convert Hindi literature into Punjabi, pointing out that its focus on ‘Swadeshi Chintan’ and Indian research methods reflects a renewed confidence in India’s intellectual heritage.

Furthermore, he commended the university’s initiatives aimed at creating a drug-free campus, expressing concern that drugs negatively impact youth, society, and the nation. He urged everyone to enhance awareness against drug abuse.

Radhakrishnan called upon the youth to devote their knowledge to the betterment of society, to strive for the nation’s progress, to consistently reject drugs, and to prioritize the nation, adhering to the principle of ‘Rashtra Pratham’.

During the convocation, over 700 distinguished students received degrees and honors, with a notable number being women.

The Vice President highlighted that out of 32 gold medalists, 23 were young women, showcasing the increasing empowerment and contribution of women towards the nation’s advancement.