Kataka President Droupadi Murmu on Monday urged higher educational institutions to nurture young talent through value-based education while fostering research, innovation and entrepreneurship to help realise the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of Jagadguru Kripalu University (JKU) in Kataka as the chief guest, the President described Odisha as a land of knowledge, culture, spirituality and public service. “For centuries, this sacred land of Lord Jagannath has spread the message of inclusivity, compassion and human welfare,” she stated, noting that the region’s ideals made it an ideal setting for an institution dedicated to integrating India’s cultural heritage with modern education.
Highlighting Cuttack’s rich legacy, President Murmu recalled the contributions of‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das, ‘Karmavir’ Gauri Shankar Ray, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Biju Patnaik, along with ‘Utkalmani’ Pandit Gopabandhu Das and ‘Utkal Kesari’ Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab.
She expressed confidence that Jagadguru Kripalu University would carry forward the city’s enduring contribution to public service, literature and culture by serving society and the nation.
Emphasising that India’s young population is one of its greatest strengths, she said universities have a crucial responsibility to create an environment where students can develop their abilities and fulfil their aspirations. “India is among the countries with the youngest populations in the world. This is our greatest asset. To make optimal use of this asset, our universities must create an environment where young people can develop their talents and realise their dreams and aspirations. They must be provided with value-based education. Universities bear the responsibility of shaping citizens guided by integrity, discipline, sensitivity and a commitment to the national interest,” the President said.
She observed that education attains its true purpose only when knowledge is applied for the service of humanity, the welfare of society and the progress of the nation, stressing that universities should not merely produce degree holders but individuals equipped with ethical values and a sense of social responsibility.
Referring to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, she said higher education institutions would play a pivotal role in achieving this objective and urged them to function as centres of knowledge where new ideas, research and technologies address societal needs while promoting sustainable development. “We have set a goal to build Viksit Bharat by the year 2047. Our higher education institutions play a pivotal role in achieving this objective. While embracing modern knowledge, students should remain committed to ethical values,” she added.
The President welcomed the university’s focus on research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the cultural and spiritual development of students, expressing confidence that it would produce skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs capable of contributing to both ‘Viksit Odisha’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’.
The event was also attended by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.