President Murmu at Ravenshaw University: “Making India a Developed Nation by 2047 Is a National Goal”
Cuttack | July 15, 2025 - President Droupadi Murmu, addressing students at the convocation ceremony of Ravenshaw University, urged the youth of India to align their ambitions with the government’s national vision—to make India a developed nation by 2047, marking the centenary of the country's independence.
Speaking passionately at one of Odisha’s most historic educational institutions, she stated:
“Our country is going through Amrit Kaal. Making India a developed nation by 2047 is our national goal. The sentiment of ‘Nation First’ is our biggest strength.”
A Call to Action: Be Inspired by India’s Builders
President Murmu advised students to take inspiration from the dedication and resilience of soldiers, farmers, scientists, engineers, doctors, and educators—pillars of the country’s progress. She emphasized that each citizen has a role to play in building a stronger, inclusive, and technologically advanced India.
“Our heroes in various fields are constantly working to increase India’s pride. You too must contribute with your knowledge, skills, and devotion,” she said.
Era of Science and Technology: Benefits and Responsibilities
Recognizing the rapid transformation in the education and innovation landscape, the President highlighted the importance of emerging technologies like:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Machine Learning (ML)
- 3D Printing
- Cloud Computing
“This is the era of science and technology. These tools are changing how we think and work,” she said, while also cautioning students against the misuse of such powerful technologies.
She lauded Ravenshaw University for embracing modern technologies and using them effectively in academic and research initiatives.
Remembering Ravenshaw's Role in History
Reflecting on the university's legacy, President Murmu recalled Ravenshaw's pivotal role in the freedom movement and in advocating for Odisha’s statehood on linguistic grounds.
“This institution was an active centre of the freedom struggle. Many of its students have become freedom fighters, scholars, social reformers, scientists, and artists,” she remarked.
Promoting Research, Inclusion and Entrepreneurship
President Murmu praised Ravenshaw University for its achievements in:
- Research and Innovation
- Inclusivity and Outreach
- Industry Consultancy
- Technology Transfers
She specially highlighted the ‘Centre of Design, Innovation and Entrepreneurship’, which nurtures startups, translational research, and business thinking among youth.
“I’m glad the university is increasing enrollment from tribal areas, underprivileged backgrounds, and among the divyangas (persons with disabilities),” she noted.
Laying Foundation for Girls’ School Redevelopment
Later in the day, the President also laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of three buildings of Ravenshaw Girls' High School. She emphasized the role of infrastructure and quality teaching in shaping a positive educational environment.
President Murmu commended both the Central and State governments for prioritizing girls’ education and expressed satisfaction that girls are consistently outperforming when given equal opportunities.
“Girls Can Achieve the Impossible”
In a strong message to the young women present, President Murmu said:
“Women are proving themselves in every field—education, science, technology, commerce. You can achieve even the impossible through your knowledge, confidence, skill, and determination.”
She urged the girl students to take inspiration from women role models across various domains and to keep striving for excellence and equality.
Our Final Thoughts
President Droupadi Murmu's address was both aspirational and grounded in reality. Her vision of India@2047 is clear—a technologically empowered, inclusive, and self-reliant nation. At a time when the country is witnessing a youth boom, her message resonates with urgency and hope. Her focus on education, innovation, equality, and national pride serves as a powerful reminder of the role that every young Indian can and must play in shaping the country's future.