Empowering Indias Future: AIU West Zone Vice Chancellors Meet 2025-26 Kicks Off Daily Udaipur

Udaipur, March 18: The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) West Zone Vice Chancellors Meet for 2025-26 commenced with a focus on “Self-Reliant India through Indigenous, Economic Patriotism, and Technological Nationalism.”

Governor Hari Bhau Kisanrao Bagde emphasized the crucial role universities play in making India self-reliant amid global competition. He stated that education is not just a means of acquiring knowledge but a strong foundation for nation-building. By promoting indigenous thinking and innovation, universities can help India establish a unique identity on the global stage.

Governor Bagde addressed the inaugural ceremony at the Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth’s Dobok campus during his visit to Udaipur. This two-day conference sees participation from vice chancellors of universities across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and other states. The event also welcomed guests including Dr. Manju Bagmar, Minister of State for Public Works, Women and Child Development, Dr. Gaurav Vallabh, Economic Advisor to the Prime Minister, AIU President Dr. Vinay Pathak, and General Secretary Mrs. Pankaj Mittal. The hosts included B.L. Gurjar, the head of Rajasthan Vidyapeeth, and Dr. S.S. Sarangdevot.

Governor Bagde remarked that concepts like technological nationalism and economic patriotism are not mere slogans but commitments to be implemented. He urged universities to empower youth through research, innovation, and skill development, aligning with the New Education Policy to achieve the goal of a self-reliant India.

In a light-hearted moment, he likened his role to that of Jambavan from the Ramayana, stating that while Hanuman possessed immense strength, it was Jambavan who made him realize his potential. He expressed that he would refrain from lecturing on education, instead playing the role of a facilitator.

He further stressed that students should be the focal point of educational institutions. Plans and programs must revolve around students to enhance their intellectual capabilities. He suggested that every university should adopt the motto that “Our university will bring comprehensive glory to India, reviving the legacy of Takshashila and Nalanda.”

Governor Bagde praised India’s glorious tradition of knowledge, noting that the British altered the education system to undermine culture. He highlighted that the Macaulay education system attempted to constrict India’s knowledge heritage. The New Education Policy aims to restore this lost grandeur by focusing on the holistic development of children, rather than confining them to textbooks. He concluded by welcoming all guests to the land of Rajasthan.

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