Blend Modern Education with Indian Knowledge Systems to Build Self-Reliant India: Governor Kavinder Gupta at HPU’s 57th Foundation Day
Research & Innovation: Major Grants Secured
VIDYA SAGAR
SHIMLA (July 22, 2026)
Addressing the 57th Foundation Day celebrations of Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) on Wednesday, Governor and University Chancellor Kavinder Gupta emphasized that the core objective of education extends beyond providing professional skills—it must cultivate character, moral values, and a spirit of selfless service among youth.
Highlighting the need to integrate ancient Indian Knowledge Systems with modern education, the Governor stated that this harmonious blend forms the foundation of a strong, self-reliant, and developed India (Viksit Bharat).
Celebrating HPU’s journey since its establishment in 1970, the Governor praised the university fraternity for maintaining academic excellence, quality research, and earning a NAAC ‘A’ Grade accreditation, while calling the milestone an occasion for both celebration and deep introspection.
‘Vidyartham Agachchha, Sevaartham Nirgachchha’: Call for Social Responsibility
Invoking the ancient motto “Vidyartham Agachchha, Sevaartham Nirgachchha” (Come to acquire knowledge, leave to serve society), Governor Gupta encouraged students to carry modern technology in one hand and India’s timeless values in the other.
Key Highlights of the Address:
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Adopting Villages: The Governor called upon HPU faculty members to adopt one village each to actively drive literacy, environmental protection, and social development at the grassroots level.
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Focus on Climate & Sustainability: In light of rising climate challenges and natural disasters in the hill state, he urged the university to scale up interdisciplinary research in disaster management, environmental sustainability, medicinal plants, and organic farming.
Research & Innovation: Major Grants Secured
Welcoming the chief guest, HPU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mahavir Singh outlined the university’s recent academic strides and major research grants:
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DRDO Funding: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has approved grants totaling ₹1.69 crore (₹82 lakh and ₹87 lakh) for two major university research projects.
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ARTRAC Support: The Army Training Command (ARTRAC) has sanctioned special research grants to foster innovation and technological advancements.
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Skill-Based Courses: New interdisciplinary centers and skill-oriented curricula have been introduced to prepare students for global workforce challenges.
Honors and Awards Presented
During the function, the Governor presented the Best Teacher & Researcher Awards as well as the Best Employee Awards to outstanding faculty and staff members for their exemplary services.
Dean of Studies Prof. B.K. Shivram presented the University’s Annual Report, followed by the screening of a special documentary titled ‘Pragati Ka Ek Varsh’ (One Year of Progress).
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Padma Shri awardees Vidyanand Sarek and Nek Ram Sharma, Dr. Rajeev Chauhan from PGIMER Chandigarh, and Registrar Jyoti Rana, who delivered the vote of thanks.
