In a significant development for India’s education sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar’s Rajgir on June 19. The inauguration ceremony was a historic event, attended by dignitaries including the Governor of Bihar, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and ambassadors from 17 partner nations .Modi, during his visit, emphasized the university’s role as a symbol of India’s academic heritage and its potential as a hub for cultural exchange and education. The Prime Minister also planted a sapling and unveiled a plaque, reinforcing the message of learning, research, and innovation. The new campus, which has been designed to replicate the historic Nalanda University and includes eco-friendly facilities such as solar plants and water treatment plants, aims to become a ‘Net Zero’ green campus.The event also underscored India’s commitment to reviving historical memories and connections with neighboring nations, with the university being a collaborative effort between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) countries. Modi’s declaration that the university’s rebuilding marks the beginning of a new golden age for India showcases the country’s ambition to be a global center of education and knowledge.However, the inauguration comes amid political tensions, as highlighted by Congress’s criticism of Modi for not granting special category status to Bihar and for the government’s silence on various issues including the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak. Despite these criticisms, the inauguration of Nalanda University’s new campus stands as a testament to India’s resilience and forward-looking vision in the realm of higher education and international cooperation.
Key points
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar’s Rajgir, attended by national and international dignitaries.
- The new campus aims to be a ‘Net Zero’ green campus, featuring eco-friendly facilities such as solar and water treatment plants.
- Modi emphasized the university’s significance as a symbol of India’s academic heritage and a center for cultural exchange.
- The inauguration was marked by political controversy, with the Congress party criticizing the PM for unfulfilled promises to Bihar.
