Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday inaugurated Jagadguru Kripalu University at Cuttack, saying higher education institutions must nurture ethical, value-driven citizens and emerge as centres of knowledge, innovation and research to help realise the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the President said Odisha has long been a land of knowledge, culture, spirituality and service, with the sacred land of Mahaprabhu Jagannath spreading the message of inclusivity, compassion and human welfare for centuries.
She highlighted Cuttack’s rich historical legacy, describing it as the birthplace of eminent personalities including ‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das, ‘Karmavir’ Gauri Shankar Ray, Subhas Chandra Bose and Biju Patnaik. She also noted that ‘Utkalmani’ Gopabandhu Das and ‘Utkal Kesari’ Harekrushna Mahatab made Cuttack their workplace, contributing immensely to public service, literature and culture.
Expressing confidence in the newly established university, Murmu said the institution would integrate India’s ancient cultural and spiritual traditions with modern education and serve as a powerful medium for the service of society and the nation.
The President said India possesses one of the world’s youngest populations, describing it as the country’s greatest asset. She stressed that universities must provide an environment where young people can develop their talents, fulfil their aspirations and receive value-based education rooted in integrity, discipline, sensitivity and commitment to national interest.
She said knowledge acquired by the youth becomes truly meaningful only when it is applied for the service of humanity, the welfare of society and the progress of the nation.
Referring to the national goal of building a developed India by 2047, the President said higher education institutions have a pivotal role in achieving the objective. She urged universities to function as centres where ideas and technologies are developed to address societal needs while encouraging students to embrace modern knowledge without losing sight of ethical values.
Murmu expressed satisfaction that Jagadguru Kripalu University would promote research, innovation and entrepreneurship alongside the cultural and spiritual development of students. She said she was confident that the university would produce skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs who would contribute significantly to the vision of both a ‘Viksit Odisha’ and a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
