Cuttack: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday inaugurated Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack and said universities must help young people develop their talents while preparing them to serve society and the nation.
She said higher education institutions have a key role in shaping responsible citizens and contributing to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Odisha’s rich legacy highlighted
The President described Odisha as a land known for its tradition of knowledge, culture, spirituality and public service.
She said the state has produced several great personalities, including ‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das, ‘Karmavir’ Gauri Shankar Ray, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Biju Patnaik.
She also recalled the contributions of ‘Utkalmani’ Pandit Gopabandhu Das and ‘Utkal Kesari’ Dr Harekrushna Mahtab, saying Cuttack has played an important role in India’s public life, literature and culture.
Murmu expressed confidence that Jagadguru Kripalu University would combine India’s cultural and spiritual heritage with modern education while serving society and the nation.
Universities must nurture talent
The President said India’s young population is one of the country’s biggest strengths.
She said universities should create an environment where students can develop their abilities and fulfil their dreams through value-based education.
According to her, higher education institutions must shape citizens who are guided by integrity, discipline, compassion and a strong sense of national responsibility.
She added that education becomes meaningful only when knowledge is used for the welfare of society, the progress of the nation and the service of humanity.
Supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat
Murmu said India aims to become a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, and universities will play a major role in achieving that goal.
She urged higher education institutions to become centres of knowledge where research, ideas and technology solve real problems faced by society.
She also encouraged students to embrace modern education without losing sight of ethical values.
Focus on research and innovation
The President welcomed the university’s emphasis on research, innovation and entrepreneurship, alongside the cultural and spiritual development of students.
She said she was confident the institution would produce skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs who would contribute to building both a ‘Viksit Odisha’ and a ‘Viksit Bharat’.