Nagaland: VP calls on NU graduates to pursue purposeful progress

Vice President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan on Friday called upon graduates of Nagaland University to pursue progress with purpose, uphold strong character and contribute to society through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Addressing the 8th convocation ceremony of the university at I. Ihoshe Kinimi Hall, Lumami, Radhakrishnan said the greatest achievement of a university was not merely the knowledge it preserved but the leaders it created. He expressed confidence that Nagaland University would continue to elevate the standards of higher education in the country.
This year, the university conferred degrees on 6,884 students, including 107 PhD scholars, 825 postgraduates, 846 graduates from professional programmes and 5,106 undergraduates. In addition, 54 students were awarded gold medals for academic excellence.
Students protest: Notably, the Vice President’s visit to Nagaland University comes amid ongoing debate in the state over the singing of Vande Mataram, with several political parties, civil society organisations and church bodies opposing its recitation at official functions.
The rendition of Vande Mataram before the start and conclusion of the programme drew a silent protest from several students and research scholars of NU present at the ceremony. According to sources, many remained seated during the recital as a mark of protest. However, they stood up when the national anthem was played.
Highlighting the institution’s academic growth, Radhakrishnan noted that from its main campus at Lumami to the campuses in Kohima and Medziphema, the university had expanded its reach to make quality education accessible to students across the region.
He also lauded the university for several academic and research initiatives, including the establishment of a cancer research laboratory and efforts to preserve and document indigenous Naga languages and customary laws.
Congratulating the graduating students, the Vice President said that convocation was not merely a ceremonial event but a moment when years of dedication and perseverance transformed into new beginnings.
The Vice President said the day symbolised pride, hope and opportunities for the graduates as they embarked on the next phase of their lives.
Radhakrishnan reminded the students that their achievements carried with them the silent sacrifices of parents, the guidance of teachers and the companionship of friends. He encouraged them to pursue progress with purpose and contribute meaningfully to society.
Calling upon the youth to remain focused and responsible, he urged them to stay away from drugs and adopt positive paths in life. He also encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in sectors where Nagaland has natural advantages. These include organic products, bamboo-based innovation, forest-based industries, cultural eco-tourism, handloom and handicrafts, as well as digital marketplaces.
The Vice President also advised graduates to use social media responsibly and as a constructive tool rather than allowing it to dominate their lives. According to him, resilience, discipline and strong character would be essential qualities for success in the rapidly changing world.
Referring to national initiatives such as Digital India, Startup India and Make in India, he said these programmes had created a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurship and innovation in the country. He encouraged students to focus on local innovations while aiming for global outreach.
Radhakrishnan further stated that true self-reliance would emerge when innovations reflected the nation’s identity and served the needs of its people. He also highlighted the importance given by the Government of India to the development of the North Eastern region.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), launched in the Union Budget 2022–23 with an allocation of Rs. 1,500 crore and full central funding, he said the scheme was aimed at supporting infrastructure, social development projects and livelihood initiatives across the region.
He also noted that the Union Budget 2026-27 had made a record allocation of over Rs. 6,800 crore for the development of the North Eastern states. According to him, these initiatives would play a significant role in creating opportunities for the youth and ensuring inclusive growth in the region.
The Vice President further remarked that there were no shortcuts to success and urged graduates to remain committed to hard work and integrity. He wished that their careers would not only be successful but also meaningful and bring pride to the land of Nagaland.
Addressing the students, Nagaland governor and chief rector of Nagaland University Ajay Kumar Bhalla said the world was witnessing rapid technological transformation and emerging global challenges, which demand creativity, resilience and ethical leadership.
He urged the graduates to remain lifelong learners, embrace change with confidence and uphold the highest standards of character and professionalism in all their endeavours.
Congratulating the graduating students, vice-chancellor of Nagaland University, Jagadish K. Patnaik, said the occasion marked not only a celebration but also a significant achievement for the graduates.
He noted that earning a university degree symbolised not just academic success but also perseverance, resilience and commitment. Patnaik reminded the students that a university degree was more than a certificate, and urged them to recognise the responsibility that comes with education, emphasising that the knowledge they had gained should ultimately serve society.
Deputy chief minister T.R. Zeliang said the state stood at a crucial juncture of growth and transformation, with improved connectivity, digital expansion and increasing focus on entrepreneurship and skill development opening new opportunities for the youth. He urged the graduates to become innovators, job creators and ambassadors of peace and progress, adding that their success should contribute to the advancement of both the state and the nation.
The programme was also attended Rajya Sabha MP S. Phangnon Konyak, ministers– Metsubo Jamir, Bashangmongba Chang, secretary to Vice President Amit Khare, chancellor Samudra Gupta Kashyap, vice-chancellor Jagadish K. Patnaik, and registrar Abemo, among others.
Earlier, Nagaland governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, along with chief minister Neiphiu Rio and several legislators, received Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan at Dimapur airport.
After a ceremonial guard of honour at the airport, the Vice President proceeded to Nagaland University, Lumami to attended the convocation ceremony.