President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack, Stresses Value-Based Education for Viksit Bharat

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday inaugurated Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack, Odisha, and underscored the importance of value-based higher education in shaping responsible citizens and achieving the national vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Addressing the inaugural ceremony, she said universities must go beyond academic excellence by promoting research, innovation, entrepreneurship and ethical values that contribute to nation-building.

During her address, the President described Odisha as a land deeply rooted in knowledge, spirituality, culture and public service. She said the state has a long tradition of nurturing values that inspire inclusivity, compassion and service to humanity. Referring to the sacred land of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, she noted that its cultural heritage has influenced generations and provides an ideal environment for an institution that seeks to combine India’s traditional wisdom with modern education.

Cuttack’s Legacy of Public Service and Leadership

President Murmu highlighted Cuttack’s historical contribution to the country’s intellectual, cultural and political life. She recalled the achievements of several eminent personalities associated with the city, including ‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das, ‘Karmavir’ Gauri Shankar Ray, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Biju Patnaik, ‘Utkalmani’ Pandit Gopabandhu Das and ‘Utkal Kesari’ Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab.

According to the President, these leaders made lasting contributions to public service, literature, social reform and governance. She expressed confidence that Jagadguru Kripalu University would continue this rich legacy by preparing students who are committed to serving both society and the nation.

Universities Must Build Character Along With Knowledge

Emphasising the role of higher education institutions, President Murmu said India’s young population represents one of the country’s greatest strengths. She observed that universities have a significant responsibility to create an environment where students can develop their talents, pursue their aspirations and prepare themselves for future challenges.

She stressed that higher education should not be limited to awarding degrees but should also focus on building character. According to the President, institutions must cultivate qualities such as integrity, discipline, sensitivity and a deep sense of national responsibility among students.

President Murmu said the true purpose of education is realised only when knowledge is used for the welfare of society, the service of humanity and the progress of the nation. She urged universities to produce graduates who possess not only professional competence but also strong ethical values and social commitment.

Education Should Support India’s Development Goals

Linking higher education with India’s long-term development vision, the President said universities will play a vital role in helping the country achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. She encouraged educational institutions to become centres of knowledge, innovation and research where new ideas and technologies are developed to address real-world challenges and contribute to sustainable development.

Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Key to Future Growth

Continuing her address, President Droupadi Murmu said higher education institutions should encourage a culture of research, innovation and entrepreneurship so that students are equipped to meet the changing demands of society and the economy. She observed that universities have an important role in generating new ideas and developing solutions that can address national priorities while contributing to sustainable development.

The President urged students to embrace modern knowledge and emerging technologies without losing touch with India’s ethical values, cultural traditions and spiritual heritage. According to her, balancing innovation with strong moral principles is essential for creating responsible citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to society.

She expressed confidence that Jagadguru Kripalu University would become an institution that nurtures academic excellence while promoting character building, leadership and social responsibility. She also welcomed the university’s emphasis on research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the cultural and spiritual development of students.

University Aims to Blend Tradition With Modern Education

Jagadguru Kripalu University has been established with the objective of integrating India’s ancient cultural and spiritual traditions with contemporary higher education. The institution aims to prepare students with the knowledge, professional skills and ethical values required to succeed in a rapidly changing world while remaining committed to public service.

According to the objectives outlined during the inauguration, the university seeks to produce socially responsible and professionally competent graduates who can contribute to national development across different sectors. The institution also aims to encourage innovation and research while preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.

Vision for Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat

President Murmu said educational institutions will play a decisive role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. She noted that India’s demographic strength presents a significant opportunity, provided young people receive quality education that combines academic learning with ethical values and practical skills.

She expressed hope that Jagadguru Kripalu University would prepare skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs capable of contributing not only to the development of Odisha but also to the country’s broader growth ambitions. According to the President, universities should serve as centres that inspire innovation, social responsibility and national progress.

Highlighting the importance of education in nation-building, she said institutions of higher learning must create graduates who are committed to serving humanity and addressing the challenges facing society. She reiterated that knowledge achieves its highest purpose when it is applied for the welfare of people and the development of the nation.

Institution Begins Its Journey With a Broader National Mission

The inauguration of Jagadguru Kripalu University marks the beginning of a new higher education institution in Odisha with a focus on combining cultural values and modern academic learning. Through its emphasis on research, entrepreneurship, innovation and value-based education, the university aims to contribute to the development of capable and socially conscious graduates.

President Murmu concluded by expressing confidence that the institution would carry forward Odisha’s long-standing legacy of knowledge, public service and cultural excellence while supporting the national goal of building a developed India by 2047.