Srinagar, Oct 11: President Droupadi Murmu, in her address at the 20th convocation of the University of Kashmir in Srinagar, underscored the pivotal role of youth in nurturing peace, prosperity, and discipline. She urged the youth of Kashmir to embrace education and peace as guiding lights, illuminating the path to the nation’s progress.
President of India Droupadi Murmu is on a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
During her speech, the President lauded the responsible youth of Kashmir, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping a brighter future. She stressed the significance of embracing ‘peace, prosperity, and discipline’ as essential elements for the nation’s development.
Addressing the 20th convocation of the University of Kashmir in Srinagar, the President said that the society and country whose youth follow the path of development and discipline, move forward on the path of progress and prosperity.
President began her speech with the words “Ye Che Mouj Kasheer,” (This is Mother Kashmir) receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience. She praised the beauty of the KU campus and noted its historical connection with Hazratbal.
“Country is proud of the responsible youth of Kashmir and urged students to actively participate in social service along with their studies,” she said adding that by doing this, they could bring social change and set an example.
President Murmu said that she was happy to note that alumni have brought glory to this university by serving the country.
She commended the accomplishments of local youth, such as Kifayatullah, who participated in the Republic Day parade in 2023 and engaged in social services.
She encouraged Kashmir University students to combine higher education with community service, aiming for positive societal transformation.
Highlighting the remarkable achievement that 55% of the 21 gold medal awardees were women, she applauded the remarkable contributions of women across various fields.
“They present the picture of our country and its destiny. The women and girls are ready to play a bigger role in the leadership of the country. She also expressed confidence that the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Act’ 2023 would prove to be a revolutionary step towards women-led development in our country.”
President Murmu emphasised the critical role of the youth in safeguarding Kashmir’s environment and natural treasures, quoting the Kashmiri proverb, “Ann poshe teli yele wan poshe..(There will be food only as long as there are forests’ ). It is the responsibility of all of us to preserve this paradise on earth,” she added.
She praised the university’s efforts in protecting the Himalayan glaciers and the ongoing research initiatives in this regard.
“Varsity should remain alert in preserving the Himalayan ecosystem. I am happy to that KU’s work related to glaciology, biodiversity conservation and the Himalayan Ice-Core Laboratory is at different stages. In future university would work at a fast pace in all such areas,” President Murmu said.
She emphasised the significance of Indian Knowledge Systems within the National Education Policy. Providing our youth with a profound understanding of these systems would offer them inspiring examples.
President Murmu highlighted the historic achievement of expert Suyya, who, over a millennium ago, employed hydraulic engineering to protect Srinagar from the Jhelum flood.
“India possesses invaluable knowledge and scientific treasures in various fields, urging the academic community to explore ways to adapt and apply these traditional knowledge systems in contemporary contexts,” she said.
She lauded Jammu and Kashmir for fully implementing the National Education Policy (NEP), setting an example for other states and union territories. She extended her best wishes to all the awardees for a promising future.
Earlier, President Murmu was received by LG Manoj Sinha at the airport and paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the Army’s 15 corps headquarters.
Numerous high-ranking officials, including DGP Dilbagh Singh, were present at the KU Convocation.
It is pertinent to mention here that President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. She was received by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Srinagar International airport.
In a post on X, LG Sinha wrote, “Extended a warm welcome to President, Droupadi Murmu Ji, on her arrival at Srinagar Airport.”
Meanwhile, President of India also wrote in a post, ” Lt Governor Manoj Sinha received President Droupadi Murmu on her arrival at Srinagar. The President was accorded a guard of honour on her first visit to Jammu and Kashmir.”
On October 12, President Murmu will make her way to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. There, she will inaugurate the newly remodelled Parvati Bhavan and the skywalk, marking a significant occasion at this sacred site.
