Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday underscored the pivotal role of educational institutions in nation-building, stating that India is steadily emerging as a creator of technology rather than merely an adopter.
Addressing the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the CMR Institute of Technology (CMRIT) in Bengaluru as the Chief Guest, the Vice-President congratulated the institution on completing 25 years of service in technical education. He described the Silver Jubilee as not just a milestone in time, but a celebration of vision, perseverance and purpose.
Praising CMRIT for its commitment to producing responsible citizens and ethical leaders alongside skilled professionals, V-P Radhakrishnan expressed satisfaction over the Institute securing the highest A++ grade accreditation from NAAC. On the occasion, he also inaugurated the new Incubation Centre and Auditorium.
Recalling his experience as a Governor, the Vice-President said he had consistently stressed the need to improve the quality and grading of educational institutions. He observed that poor institutional rankings are often linked to vacant faculty positions, and emphasised that strengthening faculty capacity directly improves academic standards, credibility and public trust.
Addressing students, V-P Radhakrishnan advised them to set clear goals and pursue them at their own pace without comparing themselves with others. While luck may not always favour everyone, he said, sustained hard work and sincerity invariably lead to success, even if results are delayed.
Highlighting India’s innovation-driven growth, the Vice-President said the country has demonstrated its scientific capability and self-reliance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when India successfully developed indigenous vaccines following a call by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also referred to flagship initiatives such as Digital India, Startup India and Make in India, and lauded CMRIT for nurturing over 50 start-ups through its Innovation and Incubation Centre.
V-P Radhakrishnan said educational institutions serve as guiding lights for the youth and play an indispensable role in shaping the nation’s future. Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, he said the objective is to build a strong and powerful India—not to dictate terms to others, but to ensure that no one dictates terms to the nation. He stressed that national strength must be rooted in self-reliance, knowledge, innovation and moral confidence.
Speaking on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Vice-President said it provides a comprehensive roadmap for empowering India’s youth, promotes multidisciplinary learning, and remains deeply anchored in Indian culture, tradition and ethos.
He also cautioned students against all forms of addiction, particularly substance abuse, urging them to remain vigilant and to actively promote the message of “No to Drugs” among their peers.
Describing the Silver Jubilee as a moment of reflection as well as celebration, V-P Radhakrishnan said it was an opportunity to renew commitment towards responsible innovation, social service and value-based education. He expressed confidence that CMR Institute of Technology, with its strong foundation and visionary leadership, would continue to contribute meaningfully to India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.
The event was attended by the Governor of Karnataka, Thawarchand Gehlot; President, CMR Jnanadhara Trust and Chancellor, CMR University, Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy; Chairman, CMR Group of Institutions, Dr. K. C. Ramamurthy; and other dignitaries.
