Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday underscored the need to integrate quality modern education with spiritual learning, saying such a balanced approach is vital for building a self-reliant, value-driven and developed India during the Amrit Kaal.
Sonowal was addressing the first convocation ceremony of Krishna Guru Spiritual University at Na-Satra in Assam’s Barpeta district. Assam Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya attended the event as the chief guest.
Addressing students, the minister said India’s future rests on its youth and education must go beyond degrees and technical skills to nurture inner strength, ethical values and social responsibility. “Along with modern education, students must illuminate themselves through spiritual learning. Only then can we build a strong society and a developed India,” he said.
Recalling his own experiences, Sonowal said the teachings of Param Guru Krishna Guru had guided his public life, emphasising humanity, compassion, harmony with nature and service to society. He added that institutions such as Krishna Guru Spiritual University provide a model of holistic education by blending spirituality with academic excellence.
The minister noted that when Krishna Guru Sevashram was established, the Na-Satra region was flood-prone and underdeveloped, making the creation of a civilisational and educational centre a major challenge. “Today, that vision has blossomed into an institution that spreads light and values in society,” he said.
Calling on students to shoulder greater responsibility, Sonowal urged graduates to reflect their education through character, conduct and commitment in their professional lives. He also highlighted the importance of yoga for holistic development, noting that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, yoga has gained global recognition as a means of strengthening the body, mind and soul.
Referring to India’s demographic advantage, Sonowal said the country’s youthful population gives it the potential to emerge as a global power at a time when many nations are grappling with ageing populations. He encouraged students to engage with youth-centric initiatives launched by the central government and to continuously upgrade their skills in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven world.
During the ceremony, degrees including doctorates, postgraduate and other academic qualifications were awarded to students from various disciplines. Gold medals were also presented for outstanding academic performance.
Eminent Satriya dance exponent and Padma Bhushan awardee Jatin Goswami was conferred an honorary doctorate (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his lifetime contribution to Indian classical dance, culture and spiritual aesthetics. The honour drew prolonged applause from the audience, acknowledging Goswami’s role in preserving and promoting Assam’s cultural heritage.
In his address, Governor Acharya emphasised the role of spirituality and values in social and national reform. He said India’s traditional education system combined intellectual pursuit with character building, ethical conduct and compassion, and called for the revival of this holistic approach. Praising the felicitation of Goswami, Acharya said honouring such personalities also elevates the institution itself.
The convocation was attended by spiritual leader Guru Krishna Shri Shri Premananda Prabhu, Bhaktimata and Chairperson of the Krishna Guru Foundation Trust Kuntala Patowary Goswami, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mohan Chandra Kalita, senior academicians, trustees, students, their families and other distinguished guests.
