Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan underscored the critical role of education and innovation in shaping India’s future, during the convocation ceremony at the Central University of Rajasthan in Ajmer.

Addressing the graduating batch of 1,673 students, Pradhan said, “As India advances on its path to becoming a developed nation, education will be the cornerstone in empowering our youth and realising the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.”

He highlighted the transformative potential of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for a multidisciplinary, skill-oriented, and employment-focused education system. “The NEP lays a strong foundation for an inclusive and future-ready education ecosystem,” he noted.

In a significant development, the minister shared that foreign universities are now establishing campuses in India, with eight institutions already operational—signalling a new era of global collaboration in higher education.

Pradhan also lauded Rajasthan’s consistent academic achievements, particularly in national-level entrance exams such as JEE and NEET. “Rajasthan has long been a cradle of knowledge, science, literature, and philosophy. This legacy must continue with a spirit of innovation and modernity,” he added.

Later in the day, the Minister inaugurated a state-of-the-art lecture hall complex at Manipal University Jaipur. Commending the institution, he said that such modern infrastructure fosters an engaging and vibrant learning environment. “Institutions like Manipal University are uniquely placed to integrate India’s ancient wisdom with modern, technology-driven pedagogy,” he said.

He also called for universities to become engines of entrepreneurship and innovation. “Our aim is to produce not just job seekers but job creators. A dedicated research park at Manipal could catalyse a thriving ecosystem of innovation,” he suggested.

Pradhan concluded by praising Rajasthan as a symbol of India’s illustrious past and a potential hub for a future-ready, developed India. “Universities must evolve into centres of research and practical solutions, addressing challenges both local and global,” he said.

Union minister of state for agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary was also present during the proceedings.

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