The 65th convocation ceremony of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University was marked by inspiring addresses and a vision for a developed India. The university, named after the great social reformer Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, holds immense significance, as does its location in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, a city reflecting India's deep-rooted history and resurgence.
In his address, the distinguished guest emphasized how India is reclaiming its lost glory and moving towards becoming a global leader. He highlighted the nation's tremendous growth over the past decade, citing exponential economic rise, infrastructural advancements, digital transformation, and unparalleled technological progress.
“India has surged from being the 10th or 11th largest economy to the 5th and is on track to surpass Japan and Germany, securing the third position in the coming years. The country is no longer just a land of potential but a nation on an unstoppable and incremental rise,” he stated.
Addressing the students, he stressed their crucial role in shaping the nation’s future. “Youth are the most important stakeholders in democracy. The dream of Viksit Bharat is now our objective. By 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence, we will undoubtedly be a developed nation,” he asserted.
He also outlined the roadmap for achieving a developed nation status, emphasizing the need for an eightfold increase in per capita income and rapid economic growth. Commitment to nationalism, prioritizing national interest over personal or partisan interests, and working towards unity were underlined as essential aspects of progress.
The call for social transformation was echoed through the principle of ‘Panch Pran,’ which includes fostering social harmony, preserving family values, protecting the environment, embracing self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat), and fulfilling civic responsibilities.“Social harmony will define unity in diversity. We must generate social harmony at all costs and respect family values, our elders, and our cultural heritage. India’s strength lies in its ethical and spiritual foundation,” he remarked.
Highlighting the urgency of environmental conservation, he quoted the Prime Minister’s initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,’ urging people to actively participate in afforestation efforts. He stressed that every citizen must contribute to sustainability as the planet faces an existential crisis due to climate change.Speaking on economic self-sufficiency, he urged citizens to support the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement, promoting indigenous products and industries.
He also underscored the importance of performing civic duties alongside fundamental rights, emphasizing responsible citizen behavior. Expressing concern over public protests and destruction of property, he called for resolving issues through legal frameworks rather than agitations.
Lastly, he encouraged students and citizens to hold public representatives and institutions accountable. “Public representatives are elected to engage in debate, discussion, and policy-making for public welfare. Social media empowers citizens to ask whether they are performing their duties effectively,” he said, urging the youth to be proactive in shaping the nation’s governance.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of university officials, faculty, and students. The convocation ceremony stood as a testament to India's commitment to progress and the collective responsibility of its citizens in building a prosperous future.