Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, delivered an inspiring address to students and faculty members of the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani in Rajasthan. During his speech, he highlighted critical issues concerning justice, education, democracy, and India’s global role.
Ensuring Justice for Women
Vice-President Dhankhar stressed that societal growth cannot be achieved without ensuring justice for fifty percent of humanity—women. He commended the passage of the Naari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as an “epochal development” that recognizes women’s rights and affirms their entitlement to justice.
The Transformative Power of Education
Championing education as the most “effective and impactful” means of improving people’s lives and accelerating India’s growth, Shri Dhankhar emphasized the pivotal role education plays in shaping a prosperous future for the nation.
Students as Agents of Change
Recognizing students as agents of change and vital stakeholders in democracy, the Vice-President urged them to hold their representatives accountable. He underscored the importance of citizens’ right to submit petitions to Parliament, reinforcing the ideals of accountability and citizen participation in the democratic process.
India’s Global Standing
Shri Dhankhar highlighted India’s accomplishments during its G-20 presidency, including the inclusion of the African Union as a G-20 member, aligning with India’s civilizational ethos. He also acknowledged the signing of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a global “game-changer” and emphasized India’s prominent role in representing the Global South on the world stage.
India’s Transformation and Global Recognition
Reflecting on India’s remarkable transformation from being part of the ‘Fragile Five’ to the ‘Big Five’ among global economies in a decade, Vice-President Dhankhar emphasized India’s global acclaim for achievements in financial inclusion and digital transactions. He also condemned corruption as a “killer of democracy and growth” and noted recent strides in neutralizing the influence wielded by power brokers.
Promoting ‘Anti-Bharat Narratives’ Combat
Shri Dhankhar called upon citizens to proactively combat “Anti-Bharat narratives” that tarnish and diminish India’s institutions. He stressed that no individual is above the law, and collective efforts are needed to preserve the integrity of the nation’s institutions.
Importance of Research and Development
The Vice-President highlighted the paramount importance of Research and Development (R&D) and the significance of ideas that drive innovation. He also announced that five interns from BITS Pilani would assist the Chairman of Rajya Sabha during the forthcoming Winter Session of Parliament.
The event was attended by Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union Minister of State for Law & Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, and Culture, Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Vice-Chancellor of BITS Pilani, Prof. Sudhir Kumar Barai, Director, faculty members of BITS Pilani, students, and other dignitaries. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s address at BITS Pilani served as an inspiring call to action for students and a reflection of India’s ongoing journey toward progress and development.
