In a landmark moment for higher education in Odisha, President of India, Droupadi Murmu, today inaugurated the Jagadguru Kripalu University in Kataka.
The ceremony marked the birth of an institution that aims to weave India’s ancient cultural and spiritual traditions with contemporary learning, research and entrepreneurship.
Addressing the gathering, the President paid rich tribute to Odisha’s centuries-old legacy. “Odisha has been a land with a rich tradition of knowledge, culture, spirituality and service,” she said. She recalled that the sacred land of Mahaprabhu Jagannath has long radiated the message of inclusivity, compassion and human welfare. Kataka itself, she noted, is the birthplace of towering figures such as ‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das, ‘Karmavir’ Gauri Shankar Ray, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Biju Patnaik, and the workplace of ‘Utkalmani’ Pandit Gopabandhu Das and ‘Utkal Kesari’ Dr Harekrushna Mahtab. Against this inspiring backdrop, the new university is expected to become a powerful vehicle for national service.
India, the President observed, is home to one of the world’s youngest populations — “our greatest asset.” To unlock its full potential, universities must create environments where young people can develop their talents and realise their dreams. She stressed the need for value-based education that produces citizens guided by integrity, discipline, sensitivity and a deep commitment to the national interest. “The knowledge acquired by the youth becomes truly meaningful only when it is used in the service of humanity, the welfare of society, and the progress of the nation,” she affirmed.
Looking ahead to the national goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047, President Murmu underlined the pivotal role of higher education institutions. She urged universities to function as vibrant centres of knowledge where ideas and technologies directly address society’s needs. While embracing modern science and innovation, students must remain anchored in ethical values.
The President expressed particular satisfaction that Jagadguru Kripalu University will actively promote research, innovation and entrepreneurship alongside the cultural and spiritual growth of its students. She expressed confidence that the institution will generate skilled professionals, researchers and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to both a Viksit Odisha and a Viksit Bharat.
With its inauguration, the university steps into a region steeped in history and aspiration, ready to shape a generation that carries forward India’s timeless wisdom while driving the nation’s future progress.
