MANDI, May 6: The Hon'ble Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday addressed the Second Convocation of Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi, exhorting the graduating class to transcend individual careers and dedicate their knowledge, innovation, and moral sensibility to the collective mission of building a strong, self-reliant India.
Presiding over the Convocation ceremony held in the historic town widely known as 'Choti Kashi,' the Governor described the event as far more than a mere degree-giving exercise — calling it "a celebration of the confluence of knowledge, culture, and responsibility." The Governor conferred 41 Gold Medals and 304 Degrees to the graduates on the occasion. Invoking the legacy of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — the university's namesake and guiding inspiration, the Governor reminded students that the founding ideal of national unity and integrity remains as urgent today as it was at Independence.
He lauded the university's decision for installing a statue of Patel on campus, expressing the concept of 'Bharat Vallabh' as a "symbol of renewed ideological reverence" that reflects the institution's national vision. "We must remain committed to realising Sardar Patel's dream of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat," the Governor urged, linking the university's founding ethos to the contemporary imperatives of national cohesion and pride. Governor Gupta praised SPU Mandi for making remarkable strides in a short span.
He specifically commended the university's phased implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), the establishment of a Bharatiya Gyan Parampara (Indian Knowledge Tradition) cell, the holding of its First Convocation in traditional Indian attire, and the constitution of various academic committees — calling these "praiseworthy steps in the direction of defined goals." He also applauded the multidimensional academic and cultural initiatives undertaken to commemorate Mandi's 500-year historical journey, describing them as a "powerful expression of deep historical consciousness and cultural responsibility." Situating the graduates within India's larger developmental arc, the Governor underscored the defining importance of this historical moment.
He pointed to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, and Viksit Bharat 2047 as collective challenges demanding active youth participation — not merely professional achievement. "In today's world, along with knowledge, innovation, ethics, and human sensitivity are absolutely essential. Technical competence alone is not enough — your thinking and perspective as a responsible citizen are equally important," he said. He called on students to use their knowledge for the upliftment of weaker and deprived sections of society, integrate drug-free living and environmental conservation into their lifestyles, and contribute actively to preserving India's rich cultural heritage. In a philosophically resonant observation, the Governor reminded graduates of the Sanskrit distinction between Dikshaant (commencement of a new journey) and Shikshaaant (end of education) — noting that true learning is a lifelong continuum guiding intellectual, moral, and practical growth.
The Governor extended warm congratulations to all gold medallists, degree recipients, their parents, and the faculty, crediting the collective dedication of mentors and families as the bedrock of every student's success. He expressed confidence that SPU Mandi would emerge as a centre of knowledge not only for Himachal Pradesh but for the entire nation. On the occasion, MLA Dharampur Sh. Chander Shekhar (EC Member SPU), Vice Chancellor Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi, DC Mandi Sh. Apoorav Devgan, SP Mandi Sh. Vinod Kumar IPS and Registrar Sh. Shashi Pal Negi were present on the occasion.
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