CM Yogi Adityanath Advocates for Holistic Education Beyond Bookish Knowledge
In a significant address during the inauguration of a newly constructed intermediate college building in Yamkeshwar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath articulated a profound vision for development. He asserted that physical development alone is not the ultimate goal of life, emphasizing instead that true progress must safeguard civilization, culture, and spiritual values.
Education as a Pillar of Cultural Preservation
Speaking at the event on Friday, CM Adityanath highlighted the critical role of educational institutions. "Centres of education should ensure that they are not limited to imparting only bookish knowledge but also prepare students with values and skilling," he stated. This year marks Uttarakhand's 25th anniversary as a state, which the CM described as a pivotal opportunity to achieve new heights of development while steadfastly preserving its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Reviving Ancient Traditions and the Gurukul System
Delving into the Sanatan tradition, Adityanath praised the 'gotra' system as a "symbol of our gratitude towards the 'rishi' tradition." He elaborated on the holistic approach of ancient gurukuls, which served as comprehensive training hubs for agriculture, Ayurveda, skills, and life values. "A Gurukul student did not find himself helpless in any struggle of life. No work was small or difficult for him," he remarked, underscoring that success stems from positive thinking, relentless effort, and hard work, while negativity leads to downfall.
Aligning with National Education Policy
The Chief Minister connected this philosophy to the contemporary educational landscape, noting that the National Education Policy advances the idea that schools should transcend mere academic instruction to become centers for skill development and holistic personality building. He also addressed controversies surrounding Saraswati prayers in schools, asserting that the goddess transcends caste, creed, or community, and her blessings naturally favor those who dedicate themselves to hard work.
Transforming Infrastructure and Empowering Villages
Reflecting on the college's history since its establishment in 1965, Adityanath contrasted the past lack of electricity, roads, and modern facilities with today's advancements, where every village enjoys access to electricity, drinking water, roads, and improved connectivity. With the government now providing enhanced facilities, he urged teachers to elevate the quality of education. He hailed Uttarakhand as 'Devbhoomi' and commended its youth for protecting national borders and excelling in various fields.
Fostering Self-Reliance in Rural Communities
Emphasizing the urgent need to curb migration from villages, Adityanath described villages as the foundational roots of civilization. "The stronger the roots, the more stable and prosperous a society will be," he explained. He called for developing villages into hubs of education, innovation, research, and self-reliance, recalling an era when villages were largely independent with minimal government dependence. "Today, there is a need to revive that spirit of self-reliance," he concluded, advocating for a return to community-driven resilience and progress.
