President Droupadi Murmu Graces Sikkim University Convocation, Highlights Role of Education, Culture and Sustainability.
Gangtok:
President of India Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday attended the seventh convocation ceremony of Sikkim University in Gangtok, where she emphasized the importance of preserving the region’s language, culture, and environment while empowering youth through education for nation-building.
Addressing students, faculty members, and dignitaries at the convocation ceremony, the President described Sikkim as a state with a unique identity rooted in its natural beauty, cultural richness, and biodiversity. Referring to the majestic Kanchenjunga, she said the mountain peak stands as nature’s invaluable gift to the state and is revered by the people of Sikkim as their guardian deity.
The President praised the people of Sikkim for their strong commitment towards environmental conservation and sustainable living. She noted that the state’s initiatives, including organic farming, curbing plastic use, and environmental protection, serve as an inspiration for the entire country.
Murmu recalled that Sikkim became India’s first fully organic state in 2016 and said the achievement demonstrated that development and environmental conservation can progress hand in hand. She added that if every citizen took responsibility for maintaining cleanliness and protecting nature, the nation could witness rapid and sustainable growth.
Congratulating the government and people of Sikkim, the President also lauded the state for being declared a fully literate state. She described the achievement as a matter of pride not only for the people of Sikkim but for the entire nation.
Highlighting the significance of the North-Eastern region in India’s development journey, the President stated that inclusive national progress is impossible without the advancement of the region. She said the youth of the North-East possess immense talent and urged students of Sikkim University to remain connected with one another and work collectively for national development.
She encouraged students to use their knowledge and capabilities for the upliftment of marginalized sections of society and contribute towards inclusive growth. According to the President, universities such as Sikkim University have a special responsibility beyond academics, particularly in preserving the region’s linguistic and cultural heritage while promoting ecological awareness and social responsibility.
The President appreciated the university for integrating modern education with local traditions and sustainable values, stating that such an approach supports the holistic development of students.
Calling education a powerful instrument of self-reliance, Murmu advised students to have faith in their abilities, learn from the experiences of others, and achieve success through collaboration rather than isolation. She urged them to define both short-term and long-term goals and work strategically towards achieving them.
She further said that India is moving steadily towards the vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047 and expressed confidence that students would contribute significantly to the country’s future while upholding the values of efficiency, equity, and sustainability.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu flagged off the ‘Ama Didi Bahini Bus Sewa’ — pink buses dedicated to women — along with Resource Recovery vehicles for solid waste management in Gangtok.
