Shimla, July 22:
Himachal Pradesh University celebrated its 56th Foundation Day on Tuesday with grandeur and enthusiasm. The Governor of Himachal Pradesh and Chancellor of the University, Shiv Pratap Shukla, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Extending his greetings to the university community, he lauded the institution’s rich legacy and its valuable contributions in the field of education.
In his address, the Governor emphasized that a university is not merely a place for academic learning, but also a hub for ethical values, innovation, and character building. He urged students and faculty members to promote value-based education and to intensify efforts in research and innovation.
Presiding over the celebration, the Governor expressed satisfaction at the university’s progress. From its modest beginning with just eight departments, it has grown into an institution with 52 departments, over 7,000 students, and more than 1,100 research scholars. He also appreciated the recent establishment of five multidisciplinary research and innovation centres at the university.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP), the Governor said that its objective is to make education inclusive, modern, and outcome-driven, and urged the university to play a proactive role in realizing these goals.
Highlighting his ‘Drug-Free Himachal’ campaign, the Governor appealed to the youth to raise awareness against substance abuse and to take the lead in building a healthier, addiction-free society.
Expressing concern over the increasing frequency of natural disasters, the Governor stressed the importance of prioritizing environmental conservation in all development initiatives.
He also noted that the university has produced distinguished individuals who have excelled in fields such as politics, science, law, literature, and sports. He called on everyone to contribute actively toward building a developed India by 2047.
On this occasion, the Governor released the university’s student magazine Parisamvad, research journal Himshikhar, and a special report on anti-drug initiatives.
Students of the university — Dr. Madan Jalta, Navneeta, and Lakshya — conveyed strong social messages through folk songs and cultural performances focused on drug prevention.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mahavir Singh delivered the welcome address, highlighting the university’s achievements, its multidisciplinary centres, and ongoing research projects. He emphasized that Artificial Intelligence and innovation are the future of education.
A significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Himachal Pradesh University and the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The MoU, signed by the university’s Registrar and Colonel Manoharam Yadav on behalf of NIDM, will promote research and training in disaster management and risk reduction.
The event also showcased the newly established Centers of Excellence, including the Green Energy and Nanotechnology Centre, the Himalayan Disaster Risk Reduction Centre, the AI Centre for Cyber-Physical Systems, the Ramanujan Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems and Mathematics, and the Centre for Mountain Culture and Heritage.
Dr. Sumit Goyal, Director of Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Delhi, shared detailed insights on cancer prevention and awareness.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by University Registrar Gyan Sagar Negi. The event was attended by Rameshwar Thakur, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission, senior university officials, academicians, alumni, students, and other distinguished guests.