Nagpur: Asking students to align their research and innovations with the nation’s needs, Lieutenant General Manjit Kumar, Chief of Staff at Headquarters Southern Command, Pune, said, “No nation can be great without the perseverance, belief, hard work and sacrifice of its youth. No matter what your field of expertise is in your years ahead, I am of the firm opinion that each one of you holds the potential to transform many lives.”
Lieutenant General Manjit Kumar was speaking during the function organised by Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU) to distribute the convocation medals at Guru Nanak Bhavan on Friday. On December 2, 2023, RTMNU had organised the first part of its convocation which was graced by President of India Droupadi Murmu who conferred degrees upon students and researchers.
As per the announcement by RTMNU then, it organised its second part of convocation on Friday where meritorious students were supposed to receive their medals and prizes from General Manoj Pande, Chief of Army Staff, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC. However, General Pande could not reach as his flight got delayed due to less visibility at the airport.
Dr Subhash Chaudhari, Vice-Chancellor of RTMNU too remained absent as he had to attend the meeting of Joint Board of Vice-Chancellors at Mumbai, convened by the Chancellor. Dr Sanjay Dudhe, Pro Vice Chancellor; Dr Raju Hiwase, Registrar; Dr Praful Sable, Director of Board of Examinations and Evaluation; Dr PB Maheshwary, Dean, Science and Technology; Dr Sanjay Kavishwar, Dean, Commerce and Management, were seated on the dais.
“As young citizens and even in the years ahead, do remember that tolerance is the cornerstone of a harmonious society. Learn to acknowledge and accept differing perceptions and points of view. Respect for all religions is fundamental to our identity as Indians. Your perspective ought to be accommodative of diverse cultures, ideologies, belief systems, as all add value to the collective richness of our heritage and legacy. Acknowledging and accepting this diversity is where the strength of the Indian societal fabric lies, and that realisation is the cornerstone of enlightened citizenship,” advised Lieutenant General Manjit Kumar.
Reminding the responsibility to the students, Lieutenant General Manjit Kumar said, “As you embark on the journey to becoming leaders in various fields, you must contribute back to the society and the nation. Do address your social responsibility, wherever possible.” Calling the students as the intellectual capital of the nation, Lieutenant General Manjit Kumar remarked, “We are looking at you as responsible citizens. You will take your nation to a height with your contribution by 2047 when India will celebrate its100th Independence Day. Your goal, passion, dedication, aspirations will help India grow. In the past few decades our nation has created multiple specialisations. When the world is facing wars, our country’s economy keeps getting stronger. Whatever has been envisioned in the budget yesterday will help India grow.”
Prof Amruta Indurkar conducted the proceedings.