VP Calls on Youth to Lead Innovation and Nation-Building at Rajasthan University’s 35th Convocation

The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, delivered a forward-looking and inspiring address at the 35th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Rajasthan today, urging graduates to transform knowledge into innovation, leadership, and societal impact in line with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Addressing a gathering of graduating students, academicians, policymakers, and dignitaries, the Vice-President highlighted Rajasthan’s enduring legacy of courage, culture, and intellectual tradition. He described the state as a “cradle of character and excellence,” noting that institutions like the University of Rajasthan have played a pivotal role in shaping generations of thinkers, administrators, and innovators.

Jaipur, he said, stands today as a compelling blend of heritage and modernity—emerging not only as a cultural hub but also as a growing center for education, startups, and digital transformation. The Vice-President underscored that such ecosystems are crucial in nurturing talent capable of addressing global challenges.

Convocation as a Launchpad for Innovation

Congratulating the graduating cohort, Shri Radhakrishnan emphasized that convocation ceremonies symbolize a transition from academic learning to real-world application. He stressed that in an era defined by rapid technological change, the true value of education lies in its ability to solve problems, drive innovation, and uphold ethical standards.

He urged students to align their aspirations with national priorities such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat, highlighting that India’s demographic dividend—over 65% of the population being under the age of 35—offers a historic opportunity to reshape the global economic landscape. He encouraged graduates to move beyond job-seeking mindsets and instead become job creators, startup founders, and innovators contributing to India’s expanding knowledge economy.

India currently ranks among the top three startup ecosystems globally, with over 100 unicorns and thousands of emerging ventures. The Vice-President noted that universities must act as incubators of innovation, fostering interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration.

Strengthening State-Level Innovation Ecosystems

The Vice-President also acknowledged the efforts of the Government of Rajasthan, led by Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, in promoting youth empowerment, digital infrastructure, and startup ecosystems. Rajasthan has seen a steady rise in innovation-driven initiatives, including incubation centers, skill development programs, and investments in higher education infrastructure.

He pointed out that such initiatives are critical in bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that graduates are equipped with practical skills, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial capabilities.

Women Leading the Academic and Social Transformation

A significant highlight of the Vice-President’s address was his strong endorsement of women’s empowerment. He expressed pride in the growing academic achievements of women, noting that in recent years, women have consistently dominated gold medal lists across disciplines at the University of Rajasthan.

He described this trend as a powerful indicator of social transformation and emphasized that inclusive growth is impossible without equal participation of women in leadership, governance, and economic development. He also expressed optimism that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam will further strengthen women’s representation in legislative institutions, paving the way for more balanced and equitable policymaking.

“India’s progress towards becoming a developed nation will be incomplete without the full empowerment of its women,” he stated, adding that their success stories serve as inspiration for future generations.

Navigating a Rapidly Changing World

In a rapidly evolving global environment marked by technological disruptions, climate challenges, and shifting economic paradigms, Shri Radhakrishnan urged students to cultivate critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience. He emphasized the importance of lifelong learning, especially in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, sustainability, and digital governance.

He reminded graduates that failure is an integral part of innovation and success, encouraging them to remain grounded in values such as humility, empathy, and integrity. “Excellence without empathy and achievement without humility are incomplete,” he remarked.

The Vice-President also called for responsible citizenship, urging young graduates to contribute positively to society by promoting inclusivity, respecting diversity, and engaging in community development. He cautioned against the misuse of social media and substance abuse, advocating instead for constructive engagement and healthy lifestyles.

Distinguished Presence

The ceremony was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including the Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde; Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa; Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Dr. Radha Mohan Das Agrawal; and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Rajasthan, Prof. Alpana Kateja.

The convocation witnessed the conferment of degrees across multiple disciplines, celebrating academic excellence and marking a significant milestone in the lives of thousands of students poised to contribute to India’s growth story.

A Vision for the Future

As India moves toward its centenary of independence in 2047, the Vice-President’s address underscored the critical role of youth, education, and innovation in shaping a resilient and self-reliant nation. By encouraging graduates to embrace entrepreneurship, uphold ethical values, and drive inclusive development, he reinforced the idea that universities are not just centers of learning, but catalysts for national transformation.