Rajgir: President Droupadi Murmu said that institutions like Nalanda University will play a vital role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Addressing the convocation ceremony of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, the President said the event reaffirmed a civilisational promise that knowledge would endure, dialogue would prevail, and learning would continue to serve humanity. She congratulated the graduating students, stating that their achievements reflected perseverance, discipline, and intellectual commitment. She noted that over half of the graduating cohort comprised international students from more than 30 countries.
The President said the ancient Nalanda University had remained a renowned centre of learning for nearly eight centuries and its decline was a monumental loss for both India and the world. However, the idea of Nalanda endured, and its revival symbolised a national and international commitment to re-establishing its legacy in a modern context. She said this resurgence had been enabled by visionary leadership, sustained institutional efforts, and coordination among partner nations.
She highlighted that ancient Nalanda promoted diverse ideologies and fostered debate and dialogue, where knowledge was linked to ethics, society, and the broader welfare of humanity. Emphasising the relevance of this approach today, she said the need for independent and critical thinking rooted in compassion was greater than ever in the face of complex global challenges. She expressed confidence that Nalanda University would emerge as a leading institution in Asia and globally, distinguished by both academic excellence and values.
Referring to India’s deep connection with Buddhist philosophy and practice, the President said this relationship must be nurtured with seriousness and a comprehensive understanding of classical knowledge traditions. She said Buddhist scholarship should remain rooted in India’s civilisational foundations while engaging with its diverse expressions across Asia. She expressed confidence that Nalanda University could become a leading global centre for Buddhist studies and urged the institution to invest in the field with depth and openness.
The President also noted that the ancient Nalanda library was believed to have housed millions of manuscripts and said that the efforts being undertaken today would create a lasting legacy.
