The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the first convocation of Central Sanskrit University in New Delhi today (March 7, 2024).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the feeling of pride towards Indian culture is the basis of our national consciousness. Realizing the rich culture of our country awakens a sense of pride. The heritage of our culture is preserved in the Sanskrit language. Therefore, spreading the cultural awareness available in Sanskrit language is a service to the nation.
The President said that Sanskrit language has woven the diversity of our vast land into a thread of unity. Many Indian languages have been strengthened by the vocabulary of Sanskrit and those languages are flourishing in different regions and states. It is not only the language of God but it is also the language of people.
The President said that the language in which women scholars like Gargi, Maitreyi, Apala and Lopamudra have made immortal contributions, women’s participation should be maximum in that language. She was happy to note that the number of boys and girls is almost equal in the gold medal winners in today’s convocation. She appreciated Central Sanskrit University for its efforts for women empowerment.
The President said that countless excellent writings on spirituality and morality are available in Sanskrit language. The wisdom given by the Acharyas to the people in ancient times are relevant even today and will always be useful. She told students that it should be the resolution of them to speak the truth, behave ethically, not be negligent in self-study, not turn away from duty and be conscious of auspicious works. By doing this they will be able to do justice to their talent and will be successful in performing their duties.
While speaking at the event, Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, expressed his gratitude to President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, for guiding the students and the academic group of the university with her presence and addressing the first convocation ceremony. He also expressed his confidence that the students of the university will be committed to transforming the 21st century into the Indian century by coordinating wealth creation and welfare.
He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, for his efforts to promote Sanskrit language and education and provide a clear roadmap. Sanskrit is not only a language of tradition but the language of development and identity, he added. He also mentioned that being the origin of many languages, the government is committed to supporting the Sanskrit language and education. Through NEP, the government is connecting Sanskrit, Vedas and Indian knowledge tradition with the modern education system of the 21st century, Shri Pradhan said.
He also appreciated the participation of the students of the university in the ongoing campaign “Mera Pehla Vote Desh Ke Liye” and the role of the university in the implementation of NEP2020 and its other recommendations such as APAAR and ABC. He also appreciated the efforts of the university in bridging the gap between Sanskrit and Ayurveda. NEP2020 is a transformative document that aims to ensure holistic education for students, make them self-reliant and inspire them in nation-building, he said. He also said that Indian knowledge is not limited to ancient times but relevant in modern times as well. Efforts should be given to make Indian philosophy and knowledge available to people around the world in as many languages as possible, he said.
