President Draupadi Murmu Honors Gold Medalists at Patanjali University’s Second Convocation in Haridwar
Haridwar:
President Draupadi Murmu honored the gold medalists at the second convocation of Patanjali University, Haridwar, held on Sunday. A total of 1,454 students were awarded degrees during the ceremony. Among them, 62 scholars received Vidya Varidhi (Ph.D.) degrees, three were conferred Vidya Vachaspati degrees, 615 students earned master’s degrees, and 774 received bachelor’s degrees.
On this occasion, Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) presented the President with two books — “Flora of Rashtrapati Bhavan” and “Medicinal Plants of Rashtrapati Bhavan” — which showcase the rich botanical diversity of the President’s Estate.
Women Leading the Way in Education
Congratulating all graduating students, President Murmu extended her blessings and praised their dedication and perseverance. Commending the medal-winning students, she emphasized that equal credit must go to their teachers and parents, whose guidance shaped their journey.
Expressing delight over the growing participation of women in higher education, the President highlighted that 64 percent of the graduating students were girls, and the number of female medalists was four times higher than that of their male counterparts. “This achievement reflects the vision of a developed India, where women are leading from the front,” she remarked.
Patanjali University: Bridging Tradition and Modernity
President Murmu lauded Patanjali University for making the ancient wisdom of Maharishi Patanjali accessible to the modern world, through its education and research in yoga, Ayurveda, and naturopathy. She said the university’s India-centric educational philosophy embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), promotes universal brotherhood, and integrates Vedic knowledge with modern science to address global challenges.
She underlined that the true aim of education extends beyond the acquisition of knowledge—it must cultivate values of morality, simplicity, discipline, and devotion to duty. The President urged students to actively contribute to nation-building, alongside personal and professional growth.
Referring to Haridwar as a sacred confluence of knowledge and spirituality, she expressed confidence that the graduates of Patanjali University, grounded in self-discipline and study, will help build a healthy, cultured, and harmonious society.
Governor and Chief Minister Laud the Institution’s Contribution
Welcoming the President, Governor Gurmit Singh described her visit to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand as a proud and inspirational moment. He said that Uttarakhand is not merely a state but a global center for yoga, Ayurveda, and spirituality, whose rishi traditions continue to spread the message of health, harmony, and universal welfare.
Congratulating all the graduates, the Governor said he hoped they would carry forward these timeless traditions and face future challenges with confidence. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s success in securing the recognition of International Yoga Day at the United Nations has brought global attention to India’s ancient heritage. “Yoga and Ayurveda have sparked a worldwide health revolution,” he said.
Chief Minister Dhami: Education Must Serve Humanity
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended a warm welcome to President Murmu on behalf of the people of Uttarakhand, describing her as a symbol of compassion, service, and courage. Recalling her recent Rafale fighter jet flight, he said it showcased her indomitable spirit and patriotism. “Her presence in Devbhoomi during the 25th anniversary celebrations of Uttarakhand is an honor for us all,” he added.
The Chief Minister urged the graduating students to utilize their knowledge and skills not just for personal advancement but for the welfare of society and the nation. He praised Patanjali University for successfully combining modern education with Indian values and traditions, describing it as a place where science and spirituality coexist harmoniously.
Integrating Innovation and Indian Ethos
Highlighting the state’s initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Chief Minister Dhami said the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is being implemented across Uttarakhand’s institutions. New-age courses such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Big Data have been introduced in universities and research centers.
He added that a “Center for Hindu Studies” has been established at Doon University to promote advanced research in Indian culture, philosophy, and history. The state is also encouraging scientific innovation through projects such as the Science City in Dehradun, Astro Park in Haldwani, and Science Center in Almora.
A Confluence of Vision and Values
The convocation ceremony was graced by Swami Ramdev, Chancellor of Patanjali University, Vice Chancellor Acharya Balkrishna, MP Trivendra Singh Rawat, Dr. Kalpana Saini, and other dignitaries.
The event reflected a vibrant confluence of India’s ancient spiritual wisdom and modern educational vision, reinforcing Patanjali University’s mission to nurture scholars who contribute to a healthy, value-driven, and progressive India.
