Rajgir, Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, in a ceremony attended by eminent figures, including the Head of Missions of 17 countries. The Prime Minister also planted a sapling to commemorate the event.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight and gratitude, noting the significance of visiting Nalanda shortly after commencing his third term. “Nalanda is not just a name, it is an identity, a regard. Nalanda is the root, it is the mantra. Nalanda is the proclamation of the truth that knowledge cannot be destroyed even though books would burn in a fire,” he said. He emphasized that the new university heralds a golden age for India, rejuvenating its ancient legacy of knowledge and education.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the historical significance of Nalanda, once a thriving center of culture and education, now revived near its ancient ruins. He stressed that the university’s revival would showcase India’s capacity to rejuvenate history and create a better world through strong human values. The presence of representatives from numerous countries underscored the international collaboration in the Nalanda project, reflecting a shared commitment to education and heritage.
Nalanda University, conceived as a collaboration between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) countries, symbolizes the collective heritage of Asia and the world. Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the contributions of friendly nations and praised the determination of the people of Bihar to restore the state’s historical glory. He noted that students from over 20 countries are already studying at Nalanda University, exemplifying the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘The World is One Family’.
Highlighting India’s commitment to sustainability, the Prime Minister pointed out the campus’s pioneering ‘Net Zero’ model, encompassing energy, emissions, water, and waste. He linked this sustainable approach to broader initiatives like Mission LiFE and the International Solar Alliance, demonstrating India’s integration of progress and environmental stewardship.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the transformative efforts in India’s education sector over the past decade. He noted the establishment of numerous educational institutions, including IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS, and the substantial rise in global rankings for Indian universities. He mentioned initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs and the Startup India program, which have spurred innovation and scientific curiosity among Indian youth.
Expressing his vision for India as a global education hub, Prime Minister Modi mentioned the collaborative efforts with international universities and the opening of global campuses by premier Indian institutions. He called upon Nalanda students and scholars to embody the values of curiosity, courage, and kindness, and to work towards positive societal change.
The inauguration was attended by several dignitaries, including Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Minister for External Affairs Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, and other prominent figures. Chancellor of Nalanda University Prof. Arvind Panagariya and Vice Chancellor Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh were also present.
The new Nalanda University campus boasts two academic blocks with 40 classrooms, two auditoriums, a student hostel, an international center, an amphitheater, a faculty club, and a sports complex, among other facilities. The self-sustainable, eco-friendly campus features a solar plant, water treatment and recycling plants, and extensive water bodies, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The original Nalanda University, established around 1600 years ago, is among the world’s first residential universities and was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2016. The new campus aims to continue this legacy, positioning Nalanda as a beacon of global knowledge and education.