Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Saturday emphasized that university-industry collaboration is essential for fostering innovation and enhancing the global standing of Indian higher education institutions. Speaking at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Rohtak and later at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Sandhu highlighted the need for problem-oriented research and future-ready skills.
IIM Rohtak induction ceremony
Sandhu attended the induction ceremony of PGP Batch 17 at IIM Rohtak as the chief guest. Addressing students, he said modern management is no longer confined to efficiency and optimisation; it is about cultivating sound judgment to navigate global complexities, technological disruptions and evolving societal responsibilities. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Vikshit Bharat, he urged students to remember that leadership stems from clarity of thought, adaptability, integrity and the ability to inspire trust — not from the exercise of authority. The LG encouraged future leaders to think beyond conventional silos and harness the power of education, innovation, and enterprise to contribute meaningfully to the journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Discussions at MDU Rohtak
At MDU, Sandhu held discussions with Vice-Chancellor Prof Milap Punia and other senior academicians on key issues related to higher education, skill development, research, and innovation. He emphasized the transformative impact of emerging technologies and the importance of integrating them into problem-solving across sectors. “As technology continues to reshape the global landscape, our educational institutions must serve as catalysts for excellence, research and innovation, empowering the next generation to lead with confidence and contribute meaningfully to nation-building,” said the LG. He stated that the changing global landscape demanded problem-oriented research focused on local, regional and national issues, and advocated stronger collaboration between universities and industry to drive innovation and enhance global standing.
Focus on ageing population and assisted healthcare
Sandhu referred to India's ageing population and said assisted healthcare for the ageing population would emerge as a major challenge, calling for sustained research to develop practical solutions. He encouraged the university to invite leading national and international experts for regular interaction with students and faculty to promote academic excellence. Describing MDU as an institution with immense potential, he noted its location in the National Capital Region offers a strategic advantage for interdisciplinary research and innovation. He asked university authorities to focus on priority areas such as biosciences, green energy, environmental conservation, pollution control, healthcare and agriculture.
MDU achievements highlighted
Earlier, MDU Vice-Chancellor Prof Milap Punia welcomed the Lieutenant Governor and outlined the university's recent achievements in academics, research and sports.
Visit to Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib
Later, Sandhu visited the historic Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib in Singhpura Khurd village to offer prayers. Highlighting its profound historical and spiritual significance for the people of the national capital, the LG noted that the gurdwara is deeply intertwined with the history of Delhi. He recalled that the sacred site served as a resting place for the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, who stayed here for a few days during his fateful journey from Jind to Delhi. Reflecting on the gravity of this momentous journey, the LG stated that Guru Tegh Bahadur travelled to Delhi to make his supreme sacrifice (Shahadat) to protect the religious freedom of Kashmiri Pandits against oppression. He emphasized that the Guru's unparalleled courage and martyrdom forever sanctified the soil of Delhi, leaving behind an enduring legacy of humanity, righteousness and self-sacrifice that continues to guide the nation.
