In a momentous event today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar. The event was attended by Bihar’s Governor, Shri Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of State for External Affairs Shri Pabitra Margherita, various ambassadors, dignitaries from multiple countries, faculty members, and students of Nalanda University.

In his address, the Prime Minister expressed his privilege and honor to visit Nalanda within the first ten days of his third term in office. He highlighted the symbolic significance of Nalanda’s revival, underscoring its role as a beacon of knowledge and resilience against the flames of ignorance that once sought to destroy it. He emphasized that the reconstruction of Nalanda University marks the beginning of a new golden era for India.

“Being here at Nalanda, in proximity to its ancient relics, this new campus will showcase India’s strength to the world,” PM Modi stated. He acknowledged the global significance of Nalanda, which has heritage ties with many countries in Asia. The Prime Minister lauded the participation of various nations in the reconstruction of Nalanda University and extended his gratitude to India’s friend nations for their support. He also congratulated the people of Bihar for their relentless pursuit of progress and development.

PM Modi reflected on Nalanda’s historical role as a vibrant center of India’s tradition and identity, where education transcended boundaries and nationalities. He urged the modern Nalanda University to embody this ancient spirit in a contemporary form, emphasizing the importance of education that fosters values, shapes thoughts, and crafts ideas. He noted the presence of students from over 20 countries as a testament to the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of Nalanda University in the cultural exchange between India and Southeast Asian countries. He mentioned the university’s initiatives, such as the establishment of a Common Archival Resource Centre and the development of an ASEAN-India University Network. PM Modi expressed his belief that Nalanda University will once again become a hub of cultural exchange and cooperation.

He also drew parallels between India’s contributions to global well-being through Yoga and Ayurveda and the sustainable model of the new Nalanda University campus, which operates on Net Zero Energy, Net Zero Emissions, Net Zero Water, and Net Zero Waste principles. He stressed that education, when developed, strengthens both the economy and culture, as seen in developed nations that are also educational leaders.

Reflecting on India’s educational reforms, PM Modi highlighted the remarkable progress in the country’s education sector over the past decade, with Indian universities performing better in global rankings. He pointed out the establishment of numerous new universities, colleges, ITIs, and Atal Tinkering Labs across the country, enhancing India’s educational infrastructure. The Prime Minister also spoke about the National Education Policy and its role in expanding opportunities for Indian youth.

Concluding his speech, PM Modi addressed the students of Nalanda University, urging them to embody the university’s values and strive for positive societal change. He expressed confidence that the knowledge and values imparted by Nalanda will guide humanity and that the university will become a significant center for global causes.

The inauguration ceremony marks a new chapter in the storied history of Nalanda University, reaffirming India’s commitment to education, cultural heritage, and global cooperation.

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