Vice President of India CP Radhakrishnan addressing the 8th Convocation Ceremony of Nagaland University at its Lumami campus on March 6.
Morung Express News
Lumami | March 6
The 8th Convocation Ceremony of Nagaland University was held on March 6, with Vice President CP Radhakrishnan addressing the graduates as the chief guest and emphasising the role of educational institutions in shaping future leaders.
Addressing the graduating students at the university headquarters in Lumami, the Vice President reminded them that convocation marks the beginning of a new chapter. In light of a rapidly changing global environment, he advised them to remain adaptable. He cautioned against comparing oneself to others, noting that everyone possesses distinct talents. “Set clear goals and move forward with purpose,” he advised.
Radhakrishnan urged the graduates to remain grounded and never forget the sacrifices of their parents and teachers. “Pursue progress with purpose and dedication,” he added.
He also asserted that a university’s true measure of success lies not merely in the knowledge it accumulates but in the leaders it cultivates. “The character that embody the excellence they pursue and the contributions they make to society are the measures of the success of any university,” he stated.
Lauding the institution’s progress since its establishment as a separate entity from North-Eastern Hill University in 1994, Radhakrishnan commended its contributions at the state, national, and international levels, particularly in the field of research. He acknowledged the university’s efforts in expanding academic access across the region and highlighted notable achievements, including the establishment of a Cancer Research Laboratory and the preservation of indigenous Naga languages and customary laws.
Focus on development and UPSC aspirations
The Vice President underscored the Central government’s commitment to the region, referencing the ‘Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region’ (PM-DevINE). Launched with 100 per cent central funding and an initial corpus of Rs 1500 crore, the scheme aims to fund infrastructure and social development. He noted that the Union Budget 2026-27 has allocated a record over Rs 6800 crore for the development of the North Eastern Region.
Urging the youth to engage with the national mainstream, Radhakrishnan called upon Naga students to participate actively in the civil services. “More and more Nagaland youngsters must participate in UPSC and you all must get very successful and serve the rest of the Nation,” he said.
A plea for a drug-free society
Describing Nagaland as a “living canvas where nature, culture, and courage blend in a breathtaking harmony,” the Vice President stressed the need for development that does not come at the cost of the environment.
In an appeal to the graduates, he urged them to steer clear of substance abuse. “I also urge all of you to always say no to drugs. That is my humble request. You should be free from drugs, and you should make your friends and family members free from drugs,” he emphasised.
‘FNTA agreement will address long-standing concerns’
The Vice President said that initiatives like the tripartite agreement signed in February 2026 between the Central Government, Government of Nagaland, and Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), are crucial for fostering stability.
He expressed confidence that the agreement, which was signed under the leadership of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, will address long-standing concerns and promote peace and development in the region.
He stressed the importance of inclusive development, noting that respecting differences is the cornerstone of a democratic society. “Peace and mutual respect are essential for the overall development of Nagaland,” he said, while referring to the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) agreement.
Nagaland University awarded degrees to 6884 students. The convocation saw 107 PhD scholars, 825 postgraduate students, 846 graduates from professional programmes, and 5106 undergraduate students receiving their degrees. A total of 54 gold medals were awarded to students in recognition of outstanding academic performance.
During the visit, the Vice President also laid the foundation stone for the HEFA Phase II buildings at Nagaland University.
Governor of Nagaland and Chief Rector of Nagaland University, Ajay Kumar Bhalla; Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, TR Zeliang; Chancellor of Nagaland University, Dr Samudra Gupta Kashyap; Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jagadish Kumar Patnaik; and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
