On 15th September 2025, at the Vidyanagari Campus of the University of Mumbai, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju performed the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony and laid the foundation stone for the Construction of the Centre of Excellence in Heritage Languages and Cultural Studies to promote studies and preserve heritage traditions.

The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar; the Joint Secretary of MoMA, Shri Ram Singh; Prof. (Dr.) Ravindra Kulkarni, Vice-Chancellor, University of Mumbai; (Dr.) Ajay Bhamare, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, University of Mumbai, and other officials.

 

During the ceremony, Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju stated, “This program in Mumbai University is not just the beginning of study of courses, but is laying a strong foundation for India’s bright future, taking along rich cultural and linguistic heritage.”

The Minister also highlighted that Mumbai University has made a unique contribution to India’s growth. He mentioned schemes of the Ministry, including the Jiyo Parsi scheme, stating, “We are the only government in the world driving special efforts to increase the population of the Parsi community.”

Hon’ble Minister asserted that no other country cares for minorities the way India does.

 

Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, highlighted that the Ministry is promoting language studies and taking various steps to preserve the country's diverse languages.

The Vice-Chancellor, University of Mumbai, Prof. (Dr.) Ravindra Kulkarni explained the background and the importance of the project, highlighting how the project will enhance the cultural value system and heritage.

The Centre of Excellence in Heritage Languages & Cultural Studies will provide academic and cultural focus on Pali and Avesta-Pahlavi through interdisciplinary research in environmental ethics, comparative global philosophy & digitisation of rare manuscripts by preserving ritual manuscripts, oral traditions, and theological literature, creating grammar guides and dictionaries, and fostering collaborations with national and international scholars.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs remains committed to empowering minority communities by promoting education, preserving cultural heritage and ensuring inclusive growth.

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