In a momentous ceremony, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, graced and addressed the inaugural convocation of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University in New Delhi. Speaking at the occasion, President Murmu emphasized the profound significance of Sanskrit as the bearer of India’s cultural heritage and the foundation of the country’s progress.
President Murmu underscored that Sanskrit’s grammar provides an unparalleled scientific basis to the language, representing a unique achievement of human talent. She urged the nation to take pride in this linguistic treasure that has been an integral part of India’s identity.
Highlighting the esteemed role of Gurus or Acharyas in the Sanskrit-based education system, President Murmu expressed confidence that students of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University would carry forward this tradition with gratitude towards their teachers. She emphasized the reciprocal relationship, envisioning that teachers would continue to bless and inspire students throughout their lives.
Speaking about discernment and wisdom, President Murmu advised students to accept the scientific and useful aspects of tradition while rejecting anything that is stereotyped, unjust, or useless. She emphasized the importance of keeping one’s conscience awake.
Referring to the National Education Policy 2020, President Murmu highlighted its vision for the youth to embrace Indian traditions while taking their place in the 21st-century world. She emphasized that education gains meaning when rooted in life values such as morality, religious conduct, and charity. The President encouraged those engaged in the welfare of others, stating that achieving goals becomes easier for such individuals.
President Murmu also stressed the hallmark of an inclusive society and urged Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University to empower female students, providing them with more opportunities to showcase their talents.
Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the historical importance of Sanskrit as a medium for the flow of knowledge and science. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for revitalizing Sanskrit education through restructuring three Sanskrit universities. Shri Pradhan highlighted the need for a renewed focus on reading, teaching, and promoting research in Sanskrit, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020. He envisioned Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University playing a pivotal role in reviving India’s knowledge tradition and making the values of Indianness and the eternal knowledge contained in the Vedas universally known today.
