DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday attended the annual “Zenith-25 Fest” at Guru Ram Rai University, where he urged the youth to prioritize the national interest and remain committed to the nation in times of crisis.
Addressing a large gathering of students, particularly young women, CM Dhami said, “We must fulfill our responsibilities with devotion, dedication, and honesty. Whenever Mother India has called, the brave hearts of Uttarakhand have risen to the occasion, defending the nation even at the cost of their lives. We too must serve with the same spirit, wherever we are.”
Preparing Youth for a Changing Future
Highlighting the rapidly evolving employment landscape, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of preparing students for emerging opportunities driven by innovation. “While traditional jobs are disappearing, new avenues are being created. We need to ensure our youth are ready for the future,” he said.
To support this vision, he shared that the state government has established incubation centers to promote internships, industry-integrated courses, and startups. He called upon students to become “job creators rather than job seekers.”
Education as the Foundation of Progress
Calling education the foundation of life, Dhami noted that Uttarakhand is the first state in the country to implement the New Education Policy (NEP). “This policy marks a significant shift toward making education more practical and employment-oriented,” he said.
Proudly referring to his own roots as the son of a soldier, the Chief Minister praised the state’s long-standing tradition of military service, stating, “Almost every family in Uttarakhand is connected to national service, and our heroes have always played a vital role in guarding the nation’s borders.”
Appreciation for Guru Ram Rai University
He lauded Guru Ram Rai University not only as an educational institution but also as a custodian of cultural and moral values. CM Dhami also praised the recent infrastructure developments on campus, including a new helipad and a modern cancer hospital, calling them significant contributions to the welfare of the general public.
The event was also attended by Cabinet Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, MLA Vinod Chamoli, Vice Chancellor Komal Saklani, faculty members, and a large number of students.