Women Lead the Way as Vice President Radhakrishnan Addresses Kashmir University Convocation
Srinagar Feb 26 :- Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan marked his first official visit to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir by presiding over the 21st Convocation of the University of Kashmir in Srinagar. Addressing the graduates as the chief guest, he emphasized that while academic infrastructure is vital, a university’s true legacy is defined by the character and societal contributions of its alumni. He lauded the institution’s prestigious NAAC A++ grade and its 34th rank in the NIRF University category, noting its significant research output and global contributions through initiatives like the National Himalayan Ice-Core Laboratory.
The Vice President highlighted a significant milestone for regional progress: the prominent leadership of women. He expressed immense pride in the fact that the Minister for Higher Education, Sakeena Masood Itoo, and the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Nilofer Khan, are women, alongside a majority of the gold medal recipients. Radhakrishnan described this trend as a powerful testament to the shifting landscape of women’s empowerment within the region. He encouraged the youth to adapt to a rapidly evolving world, stressing that “change is the only constant” and urging them to pursue “Swadeshi” innovations that align with the national vision of a Viksit Bharat@2047.
Reflecting on the infrastructure boom in the region, the Vice President pointed to the expansion of the Srinagar International Airport and the historic Chenab Rail Bridge as catalysts for economic growth and social harmony. He shared his optimism that under the local leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Srinagar could soon emerge as India’s cleanest city. Concluding with a call for national unity, he reminded the graduates to respect the sentiments of others as a core democratic value, famously stating, “Yah hum sabka Kashmir hai” (This Kashmir belongs to all of us), while advising them to use social media responsibly and remain resilient against life’s challenges.