Defence Minister tells Ambedkar University convocation that constitutional means, not agitation, are the path to change; says universities must produce citizens grounded in justice, equality and fraternity
Lucknow, Aug 29 (BuzzBytes): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the youth of the country must come together as a united “Team India” to achieve the goal of a Viksit Bharat, telling them that in a rapidly changing world they must be prepared to constantly learn new skills and adapt to changing circumstances.
Addressing the convocation of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow, the Defence Minister invoked Dr B R Ambedkar’s famous mantra of “educate, agitate, organise,” explaining that its purpose was to acquire knowledge, raise one’s voice against injustice, and unite for positive change through democratic and constitutional means.
Stressing the importance of constitutional methods for social change, Rajnath Singh recalled that Dr Ambedkar, in his last speech to the Constituent Assembly, had made clear that constitutional paths must be adopted to achieve social and economic objectives. He said that when democratic and constitutional means are available, resorting to violence, chaos or unconstitutional means can never be acceptable, adding that Dr Ambedkar had termed such methods the “grammar of anarchy” and had stressed the need to abandon them.
The Defence Minister said universities must focus on shaping young minds inspired by the ideals of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity, so that they can play a meaningful role in nation-building. Highlighting the importance of holistic education, he said true education develops the ability to think, understand and solve problems, but its most important purpose is that individuals learn to use their knowledge and abilities for the betterment of society.
Rajnath Singh said that along with education, it is essential to nurture values, moral consciousness and human sensitivity among the youth, because knowledge and success become meaningful only when they are grounded in strong ethical values. Referring to Dr Ambedkar’s scholarship, service and humility, he said knowledge and achievement must always rest on the foundation of moral values and better conduct.
The Defence Minister said the world is changing rapidly and new technologies and innovations are continuously creating new opportunities, and it is essential for the youth to remain committed to continuous learning and adapting themselves to new circumstances. Those who remain prepared to learn new things and acquire new skills, he said, will be best placed to succeed in a fast-changing world.
Calling the youth the foundation of the nation’s future, the Defence Minister said building a Viksit Bharat is not the government’s responsibility alone but is possible only through the collective effort of every citizen, particularly the youth. He appealed to young people to put their abilities, knowledge and energy to use for the country’s progress and to play their part in building an India that is developed, self-reliant, innovative and strong—(BuzzBytes)
