President Murmu Inaugurates Jagadguru Kripalu University in Odisha

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said Odisha has always been known for its rich legacy of knowledge, spirituality, culture and public service.

President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack, describing it as an institution that can combine India's rich cultural and spiritual traditions with modern education while preparing young people to contribute to the country's future. She said universities have a vital responsibility in shaping responsible citizens who combine knowledge with values and use their education to serve society.

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said Odisha has always been known for its rich legacy of knowledge, spirituality, culture and public service. She noted that the land of Lord Jagannath has inspired generations through its message of compassion, inclusivity and human welfare.

The President also highlighted Cuttack's contribution to the nation's history, recalling the achievements of distinguished personalities such as Madhusudan Das, Gauri Shankar Ray, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Biju Patnaik, Pandit Gopabandhu Das and Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab. She expressed confidence that the newly established university would carry forward this legacy by serving society through education, research and innovation.

Youth Are India's Greatest Strength

President Murmu said India's young population remains one of the country's biggest advantages, making it essential for universities to provide an environment where students can discover their abilities and fulfil their aspirations. She stressed that higher education should not only build academic excellence but also nurture integrity, discipline, sensitivity and a strong commitment to the nation.

She added that knowledge becomes truly meaningful when it is used to improve people's lives, contribute to social welfare and support national development.

Education Must Support Viksit Bharat

The President said India's goal of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends significantly on the strength of its higher education institutions. She urged universities to become centres where new ideas, research and technologies respond to real societal needs while encouraging students to uphold ethical values alongside scientific and technological progress.

She welcomed the university's focus on research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the cultural and spiritual development of students, saying this balanced approach would prepare graduates for future challenges.

Building Skilled Leaders for the Future

President Murmu expressed confidence that Jagadguru Kripalu University will produce skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs capable of contributing to the development of both Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat. She said institutions that combine modern education with India's civilisational values can play an important role in building a stronger, more inclusive and knowledge-driven nation.