Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday inaugurated the Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack, calling on higher education institutions to nurture value-based learning, innovation and ethical leadership to help realise the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the President said Odisha has long been a centre of knowledge, culture, spirituality and public service. She noted that the land of Lord Jagannath has for centuries symbolised inclusivity, compassion and human welfare, adding that the new university would carry forward this legacy by blending India’s ancient cultural and spiritual traditions with modern education.
Highlighting Cuttack’s rich historical and intellectual heritage, Murmu recalled the contributions of eminent personalities such as Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, Karmavir Gauri Shankar Ray, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Biju Patnaik, Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das and Utkal Kesari Dr Harekrushna Mahtab. She said the university, established in such a historic city, is expected to become a centre for serving society and the nation.
The President said India’s young population is one of its greatest strengths and stressed that universities must create an environment where students can realise their aspirations while receiving value-based education. She said institutions of higher learning have the responsibility of shaping citizens guided by integrity, discipline, compassion and a commitment to national interest.
She emphasised that education becomes meaningful only when knowledge is applied for the welfare of society, humanity and the nation. According to her, higher educational institutions will play a pivotal role in achieving the country’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Murmu urged universities to emerge as centres of knowledge and innovation where ideas and technologies are developed to address societal needs. While encouraging students to embrace modern knowledge, she also stressed the importance of remaining rooted in ethical values.
Expressing satisfaction over the university’s academic vision, the President said Jagadguru Kripalu University would promote research, innovation and entrepreneurship while placing equal emphasis on the cultural and spiritual development of students. She expressed confidence that the institution would produce skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs who would contribute to the vision of a Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat.
