THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BALASORE, FEBRUARY 3, 2026

President of India Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday underscored the pivotal role of universities in nation-building, asserting that institutions of higher learning have a “special responsibility to act as catalysts of inclusive growth, innovation and social transformation.”

Addressing the convocation ceremony of Fakir Mohan University and inaugurating its new auditorium in Balasore, the President called upon universities to nurture critical thinking, ethical leadership and research that responds to both local and global challenges.

Paying glowing tributes to Vyasakabi Fakir Mohan Senapati, the President said his literary legacy had left a lasting impression on her life. Recalling her student days, she noted that she was deeply influenced by Senapati’s timeless story ‘Revati’, which portrays the determination of a young girl to pursue education in the 19th century. “That influence remains indelible. The resolve of a girl to continue her education against all odds is an enduring testament to the power of determination,” she said, adding that her own educational journey — from studying in a remote tribal village to completing her schooling and college education in Bhubaneswar—was inspired by such ideals.

Highlighting Fakir Mohan Senapati’s deep love for the Odia language, President Murmu quoted him as saying, “My mother tongue is supreme to me.” She emphasised that education in one’s mother tongue enables students to better understand their surroundings, customs and cultural environment, while staying rooted in civilisational values. “The National Education Policy 2020 rightly stresses the importance of mother tongue in education, helping students remain connected to their culture while acquiring modern knowledge,” she observed.

The President also spoke at length about India’s rich knowledge traditions, noting that ancient scriptures and manuscripts are repositories not only of poetry and literature but also of science, medicine, astronomy and architecture. Encouraging young scholars to explore these traditions, she said, “By understanding the past and comprehending the present, students can shape their own future as well as the future of the nation.”

Congratulating the graduating students, President Murmu said that knowledge, passion and commitment are the foundations of respect and recognition in society. She reminded them that dedication is the key to success in every endeavour, while drawing a distinction between success and meaning in life. “A successful life is good, but a meaningful life is even better. Achieving fame, prestige and financial security is important, but doing something for others gives life its true purpose,” she said, urging students to support those left behind in the development journey. “The development of society lies in the development of everyone,” she added.

Expressing happiness over Fakir Mohan University’s focus on research and outreach alongside academics, the President lauded its initiatives linked to the Balasore-Bhadrak region, known for paddy cultivation, betel leaves and fisheries. She appreciated the university’s research and training programmes in these sectors, as well as initiatives such as ‘Back to School’, ‘Earn While Learn’, ‘Each One Teach One’, environmental awareness drives and beach cleaning campaigns. Referring to the abundance of blue crabs and horseshoe crabs along the region’s coastline, she said that the proposal to establish a dedicated research centre reflected the university’s foresight.

Stressing that the growth, security and technological advancement of all sections of society are essential for national progress, President Murmu said universities across the country have a crucial role to play. “By nurturing inclusive growth, innovation and social responsibility, institutions of higher learning can shape a future that is sustainable, equitable and rooted in human values,” she said, expressing confidence that Fakir Mohan University, through its academic vision and community engagement, will play a transformative role in this direction.