“Nalanda Fostered Debate, Dialogue”: President Murmu

President calls university vital for India’s knowledge future and global leadership

  • Droupadi Murmu addresses Nalanda University convocation
  • Stresses dialogue, ethics and inclusive knowledge tradition
  • Over 30 countries represented among graduating students
  • Calls Nalanda vital for India’s 2047 development vision

GG News Bureau
Rajgir, 31st March: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday addressed the convocation ceremony of Nalanda University, underlining the institution’s historic legacy and its role in shaping India’s future as a knowledge-driven nation.

Congratulating the graduating students, the President said the convocation reaffirmed a “civilizational promise” that knowledge, dialogue and learning will continue to serve humanity. She noted that more than half of the graduating cohort comprised international students from over 30 countries.

Highlighting the legacy of ancient Nalanda, she said it stood as a global centre of learning for nearly eight centuries, fostering debate, dialogue and intellectual exchange across diverse ideologies.

“The resurgence of Nalanda reflects a shared commitment to revive this legacy in a modern context,” she said, adding that such institutions demonstrate how nations can achieve common goals through shared values.

The President emphasised that Nalanda’s tradition of linking knowledge with ethics and societal welfare remains highly relevant in today’s complex world. She stressed the need for independent and critical thinking rooted in compassion.

Referring to India’s deep connection with Buddhist philosophy, Murmu called for strengthening Buddhist studies with a balanced approach rooted in civilisational foundations while engaging with global perspectives.

She expressed confidence that Nalanda University will emerge as a leading global centre of learning, particularly in Buddhist studies, and will build a distinct identity based on both academic excellence and values.

The President said institutions like Nalanda will play a crucial role as India moves towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.