Addressing the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir as the chief guest in Srinagar, he noted that they are stepping into a world marked by constant technological shifts and emerging opportunities, reminding them that “change is the only constant.”
Photo: SNS
The Vice-President of India, CP Radhakrishnan, on Thursday urged the graduating students to prepare themselves for a rapidly evolving global landscape, stressing that adaptability and innovation will define future success. This marked his first-ever visit to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir as the Vice-President of India.
Addressing the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir as the chief guest in Srinagar, he noted that they are stepping into a world marked by constant technological shifts and emerging opportunities, reminding them that “change is the only constant.”
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Encouraging young minds to continuously upgrade their skills, the Vice-President called upon them to embrace innovation and contribute meaningfully to nation-building. Highlighting India’s growing role as a hub of technological advancement, he urged the youth to focus on ‘Swadeshi’ innovations aligned with national priorities and play their part in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
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The Vice-President also advised students to stay away from drugs and exercise responsibility while using social media, emphasising that life beyond the classroom will test their patience, courage, and character.
On a note of unity and shared identity, he said, “Yah na mera Kashmir hai, na tumhara Kashmir hai — yah hum sabka Kashmir hai.” (Kashmir is not mine or yours, it belongs to all of us).
The Vice-President observed that while universities may be known for infrastructure and academic excellence, their true legacy is reflected in the character and contributions of their graduates. He lauded the University of Kashmir, established in 1948, for its proud legacy and expanding academic footprint. He commended the University’s NAAC A++ Grade, 34th rank in the NIRF University category, over 7,700 research publications since 2019 and pioneering initiatives such as the National Himalayan Ice-Core Laboratory, which underline its growing global presence.
He expressed special happiness over three significant aspects of the convocation: that the Minister for Higher Education is a woman, the Vice-Chancellor of the University is a woman, and that a majority of gold medal recipients were women. He described this as a powerful reflection of women’s empowerment and progress in Jammu & Kashmir.
Highlighting development initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the region, including the expansion of Srinagar International Airport and landmark infrastructure projects such as the Chenab Rail Bridge, the Vice-President said these initiatives create new opportunities and strengthen social harmony.
He underlined that in a democracy, respecting the sentiments of others is as important as respecting one’s own sentiments, and such exchanges deepen national integration.
The ceremony was attended by the Lieutenant Governor and Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Manoj Sinha; Chief Minister and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Omar Abdullah; the Minister for Higher Education, Ms Sakeena Masood Itoo; the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Prof. Nilofer Khan; senior faculty members, distinguished guests, parents and graduating students.
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