Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid obeisance to spiritual guru Rambhadracharya during the ninth convocation ceremony of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Divyang State University in Chitrakoot on Monday, apologising for his physical absence. Addressing the gathering virtually, Singh greeted students who secured medals and emphasised that Chitrakoot is a centre of culture, heritage, and spirituality. He advised students to enhance their academic pursuits in the future.
Convocation Highlights
The event, held on the university campus, saw the awarding of 2,417 degrees, 141 gold medals, six chancellor medals, and 39 doctoral degrees. The convocation took place after a gap of seven years. Singh, who was originally scheduled to attend in person but had to change plans, extended his good wishes to graduates and the university fraternity, assuring continued support for the institution's development.
Government Support and Chief Guest
Narendra Kashyap, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Divyangjan Empowerment and Backward Class Welfare, served as the chief guest. He pledged full government support for the university's future growth, including infrastructure development, new centres, and NAAC-related assistance.
Rambhadracharya's Message
Presiding over the ceremony, Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya described the university as a symbol of India's rich knowledge tradition. He emphasised that education should inspire service to humanity, society, and the nation.
Vice Chancellor's Address
Vice Chancellor Prof. Shishir Kumar Pandey welcomed the dignitaries and termed the convocation historic. He noted that after attaining recognition from the state government, the university has emerged as a centre of attraction for differently-abled students not only from Bundelkhand but from across the country. Highlighting recent achievements, he spoke about the rise in student enrollment, introduction of new courses, and the institution's steady academic expansion.
Honorary Degrees and Publications
During the ceremony, IAS officer and Paralympic silver medallist Suhas LY and Chitrakoot Division Commissioner Ajit Kumar were conferred with honorary DLitt degrees for their contributions to disability empowerment, sports, and public administration. The university's research journal Samanubhuti was also released, along with books authored by lifelong chancellor Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya, including works on the Ramcharitmanas and Sanskrit literature.
