External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar delivered a significant address at the 22nd Convocation of Symbiosis International (Deemed University) in Pune on Saturday, articulating a transformative shift in how the world perceives India. He served as the Chief Guest for the ceremony, which was presided over by the founder and Chancellor, Prof. Dr. S. B. Mujumdar.
A Transformed Global Image for India
Jaishankar emphatically stated that the international community now regards India with far greater positivity and seriousness than in previous decades. He attributed this evolution to a substantial enhancement of the nation's brand and the individual reputations of its people. "The short answer is very much more positively and very much more seriously than before," the Minister told the gathering of graduates, faculty, and dignitaries.
He elaborated that old stereotypes are fading as global conversations increasingly praise the Indian diaspora. The world recognizes Indians for their strong work ethic, aptitude for technology, and family-centric culture. "India today is defined by its talent and skills," Jaishankar noted, adding that improvements in ease of doing business and ease of living within India further bolster this new image.
Human Resources as India's Distinctive Edge
While acknowledging that most nations establish their global presence through trade and investment, Jaishankar pinpointed human resources as India's distinguishing factor. He highlighted tangible proof of this transformation, including the growing number of Global Capability Centres established in India and the rising international demand for Indian professionals.
The Minister connected this global shift to changes in the West, where he observed a sense of stagnation. He suggested that decisions to offshore production for profit maximization, combined with demographic challenges and lifestyle choices, have eroded competitiveness in some Western nations. "The global economic and, thereafter, political pecking order has actually undergone a very significant change," Jaishankar concluded from this analysis.
A Charge to the Graduating Class
Addressing the students directly, Jaishankar congratulated them on their academic achievement and placed a profound responsibility on their shoulders. He reflected on the decades of change India has witnessed and asserted that today's graduates possess a wider knowledge base, greater confidence, and a different skill set. "You are the generation that has the responsibility of taking India to the next level," he declared.
He also outlined the nation's future needs, extending beyond traditional professions like engineering and medicine. "We will need not just more engineers, doctors, and managers... but equally, teachers, researchers, historians, artists, and sportspersons," Jaishankar said, pointing to the doubling of higher education institutions in the last decade as a foundation for further growth.
In his presidential address, Prof. Dr. S. B. Mujumdar advised the graduates to pursue a life guided by innovation with courage, compassion for the less fortunate, and passion in all endeavors. The convocation was also attended by Pro Chancellor Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Vice Chancellor Dr. R Raman, Provost Dr. Rajiv Yeravdekar, and Registrar Dr. M S Sejul.
