The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today delivered the 2nd Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Lecture on the theme “Dr. Ambedkar as a Nation Builder: Pathways Towards Viksit Bharat” at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre. Earlier, he paid floral tributes to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar at the Centre on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
Extending greetings on Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti as well as festivals such as Tamil New Year and Baisakhi, the Vice-President said that the occasion reflects India’s rich cultural diversity and unity. He described Dr. Ambedkar as one of the greatest architects of modern India and a true nation builder whose contributions continue to guide the Republic.
Appreciating the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for organising the lecture series, the Vice-President noted that such initiatives would inspire younger generations to uphold democratic ideals and constitutional values. He said the lecture provides an opportunity to reconnect with the moral and intellectual foundations of the nation.
Highlighting Dr. Ambedkar’s life journey, the Vice-President said that despite immense hardships, he transformed challenges into opportunities through perseverance, scholarship, and commitment to justice. He emphasised that Dr. Ambedkar firmly believed education to be the key to social transformation, stating that true freedom begins with education.
The Vice-President underscored Dr. Ambedkar’s intellectual brilliance, noting his seminal work “The Problem of the Rupee” and his courage in questioning colonial economic policies. He remarked that Dr. Ambedkar demonstrated how knowledge and wisdom can challenge even the most powerful systems.
Referring to Dr. Ambedkar’s pivotal role in drafting the Constitution, the Vice-President said that through his leadership across extensive deliberations, he laid the foundation of an inclusive India rooted in justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He described the Constitution of India as one of the most comprehensive democratic charters in the world.
Emphasising the importance of constitutional morality, the Vice-President, reflecting on his role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, said that democratic institutions must function through dialogue, debate, and constructive discussion. He noted that parliamentary discourse should lead to decisions rather than disruptions, stressing the need for informed and respectful engagement.
The Vice-President highlighted Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of social and economic democracy alongside political democracy. He referred to various initiatives undertaken in recent years under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi aimed at inclusive development, financial empowerment, and upliftment of underdeveloped regions, noting that such efforts align with Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals.
He also underscored Dr. Ambedkar’s progressive vision on gender equality, recalling his emphasis on women’s empowerment as a measure of societal progress. He highlighted the growing participation and achievements of women across sectors and the government’s initiatives supporting women-led development.
The Vice-President stated that the aspiration of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047 requires collective effort guided by constitutional values. He said that a developed India must be inclusive, equitable, innovative, and rooted in democratic principles.
Highlighting the development of the Panch-Teerth associated with Dr. Ambedkar’s life, the Vice-President said these sites serve as enduring sources of inspiration for future generations. He called upon citizens to work together towards building a just and inclusive society, which would be the true tribute to Dr. Ambedkar.
Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Virendra Kumar, Secretary, Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Sudhansh Pant, along with scholars, dignitaries and distinguished guests were present on the occasion.