PM Narendra Modi Inaugurated New Campus of Nalanda University

On June 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University, an international institution situated near the ancient ruins of Nalanda in Rajgir, Bihar. The event marked a significant milestone in reviving India's historical and educational glory.

Symbol of India’s Academic Heritage

In his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that Nalanda stands as a symbol of India’s rich academic heritage and vibrant cultural exchange. He stated, “Nalanda is the proclamation of this truth that books may burn in the flames of fire, but the flames of fire cannot destroy knowledge. Nalanda is an identity, respect, and pride.” The Prime Minister also highlighted the presence of representatives from many countries, underscoring the international importance of the institution.

Establishment and Development of Nalanda University

The Parliament of India established Nalanda University through the Nalanda University Act, of 2010. This act laid the foundation for implementing the decisions from the second East Asia Summit (Philippines, 2007) and the fourth East Asia Summit (Thailand, 2009) to create an international institution dedicated to intellectual, philosophical, historical, and spiritual studies. The university started functioning in 2014 with 14 students from a temporary location, and the construction of the new campus began in 2017.

Inauguration Ceremony

The inauguration ceremony saw the attendance of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, 17 ambassadors from participating countries, Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha. Before the official inauguration, Prime Minister Modi visited the ancient ruins of Nalanda and planted a sapling of a Bodhi tree from Bodh Gaya on the new campus. Nalanda University Chancellor Arvind Panagariya and Interim Vice-Chancellor Abhay Kumar Singh were also present on the occasion.

Revival of Nalanda University

Prime Minister Modi stated that the revival of Nalanda University near its ancient ruins would showcase India’s potential to the world. He noted that Nalanda is not just a renaissance of India’s past but also a heritage shared by many countries in Asia. He expressed confidence that Nalanda University would once again become a major centre for cultural exchange.

Vision for India’s Educational Future

Mr Modi articulated his vision for India to be recognized once again as the most prominent knowledge centre globally. He expressed his aspiration for India to have the world’s most comprehensive skill system and the most advanced research-oriented higher education system. He encouraged students to be curious, courageous, and kind, predicting that Indian youth would provide leadership to the world in the future. The Prime Minister assured that the Central government was ready to provide all possible assistance to Nalanda University.

International Collaboration and Opportunities

Nalanda University has participation from 17 other nations, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. These countries have signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) supporting the university. The institution offers 137 scholarships to international students, including those funded by the ASEAN-India Fund, BIMSTEC scholarships, and the Bhutan Scholarship by the Ministry of External Affairs. The university provides postgraduate and doctoral research courses, along with short-term certificate courses.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Nalanda University’s new campus represented a significant step in restoring the ancient university's historical eminence and advancing India’s role as a global knowledge hub. Prime Minister Modi’s vision and commitment have provided a strong impetus for the institution to become a major centre for learning and cultural exchange in the 21st century.