Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, today delivered a powerful address at the Annual Convocation of Jaipuria Institute of Management, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
He urged citizens to embrace economic nationalism, prioritising national interests over trade with countries opposed to India’s security and progress.
Highlighting the need for a strong economic foundation, Shri Dhankhar stated, “Can we afford to empower countries that are inimical to our interests? Time has come when each one of us must deeply think about economic nationalism.” He emphasised that Indians must reconsider their travel and import choices, ensuring they do not strengthen economies that stand against India in times of crisis.
Another key focus of the speech was the commercialisation of education. Shri Dhankhar expressed deep concern over the growing commodification of education, stating that learning institutions should be places of service, not profit-making businesses. “Education and health, as per our civilisation ethos, are not areas to make money but areas to give back to society,” he said.
The Vice President also praised the success of Operation Sindoor, India’s latest counterterrorism mission, calling it a befitting response to the barbaric attack at Pahalgam. Shri Dhankhar asserted that India’s security forces have set a new benchmark with their precise and strategic targeting of terror outfits deep within Pakistan. He likened India’s strategic response to the U.S. operation against Osama bin Laden, further solidifying the country’s stance on counterterrorism.
In closing, he urged the youth and industry leaders to prioritise research and innovation, ensuring India’s self-reliance in technology and security.