The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today addressed the Convocation Ceremony of Lovely Professional University (LPU) at Phagwara, Punjab, and called upon the youth to combine professional excellence with ethical responsibility in the service of the nation and humanity.

Speaking on the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, the Vice-President said that India stands at a defining juncture as it moves towards the centenary of its Independence. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he noted, the country has set an ambitious yet achievable goal of building a developed, self-reliant, inclusive and confident India. This vision, he said, goes beyond economic growth and encompasses social harmony, ethical leadership, cultural confidence, technological self-reliance, and inclusive development—its realisation depending largely on the energy, competence, and character of the youth.

Clarifying India’s aspiration to emerge as a major global power, the Vice-President said that the objective is not to dictate terms to smaller nations, but to ensure that no other country can dictate terms to India.

Highlighting the rapidly changing global landscape, the Vice-President observed that what was relevant even five years ago may soon lose relevance. Change, he said, is the only constant, and adaptability and lifelong learning are essential for sustained success.

The Vice-President advised students never to compare their success or failures with others, emphasising that each individual has a unique journey and pace in life. Citing the lives of Abraham Lincoln and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he said that consistent effort, perseverance and integrity can take individuals from humble beginnings to positions of great responsibility. While living for oneself is not wrong, he added, living only for oneself diminishes the larger purpose of life.

Outlining three guiding principles for students, the Vice-President urged them to practise effective time management, avoid shortcuts that undermine long-term success, and never give up, recalling the inspiring words of Swami Vivekananda — “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.”

Vice-President also commended the University's Jai Jawan Scholarship, which honours the sacrifices of armed forces personnel and their families by providing meaningful educational support. Referring to the University’s conduct during Operation Sindoor, the Vice President said that such initiatives reaffirm that universities are not merely centres of learning, but institutions that help build national character.

Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse on campuses, the Vice-President described it as a grave threat to youth and society, and urged students to say a firm and unequivocal “No to Drugs,” choosing discipline, purpose and healthy living.

In conclusion, the Vice-President reminded students to remain forever grateful to their parents and gurus, whose guidance, sacrifices and values shape their character and destiny.

The Convocation Ceremony was attended by Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh; Shri Mohinder Bhagat, Minister for Defence Services Welfare, Freedom Fighters & Horticulture, Government of Punjab; and Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder & Chancellor of Lovely Professional University, among others.

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PR/ASM