The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced and addressed the convocation ceremony of the Guru Nanak Dev University at Amritsar, Punjab today (January 15, 2026). 

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that after completing formal education, students will embark on their journeys in different directions. Some will serve in the government or private sector, others will pursue higher education or research, while many will establish their own ventures or build their careers in teaching. While each field requires different types of qualifications and skills, some qualities are equally essential and helpful for progress in every field. These are – a continuous desire and inclination to learn; firm adherence to moral values, integrity, and honesty, even in adverse and difficult circumstances; the courage to embrace change; the determination to learn from failures and move forward; a spirit of teamwork and collaboration; disciplined use of time and resources; and using knowledge and abilities not for individual gain, but for the greater good of society and the nation. She stated that these qualities will not only make them a good professional but also a responsible citizen.

The President advised students to remember that education is not merely a means of livelihood. It is also a means of serving society and the nation. She said that they owe a debt to the society which has contributed to their education. Making efforts to uplift those who have been left behind in the development journey can be one of the ways of repaying the debts.

The President said that in the last decade, India has made remarkable progress in the fields of technology development and entrepreneurship culture. Today, numerous entrepreneurial opportunities from Agriculture to AI and from Defence to Space are available to young people. Our higher education institutions can further accelerate this progress by promoting research, strengthening industry-academia collaboration, and encouraging socially relevant innovations.

The President said that in recent years, the problem of drug abuse has emerged as a serious challenge in Punjab, affecting the youth the most. This problem is impacting not only health but also the social, economic, and moral fabric of society. A lasting solution to this problem is essential for a healthy society. In this context, the role of educational institutions like Guru Nanak Dev University is crucial. All stakeholders of this university should make every possible effort to guide the youth in the right direction.

The President said that the next two decades are very important in making ‘Viksit Bharat’. The future of India depends on young people who possess a scientific temper, act responsibly and serve selflessly. She urged higher education institutions to inculcate these values in their students. She also urged young students to ensure that whatever profession they choose, their contribution should strengthen the nation and reinforce human values.

The President was happy to note that Guru Nanak Dev University was established during the 500th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and his teachings and values are the guiding principles of this university. She stated that Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings are our shared heritage, and his thoughts and ideals pave the way for the welfare of all humanity. By incorporating his ideals into our lives, we can find solutions to many of the problems plaguing society.

The President said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught us that women should be given equal rights in society. She was happy to note that Guru Nanak Dev University is striving for women’s empowerment in accordance with the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, which is evident in the dominance of female students among those receiving degrees and medals at the convocation ceremony. She stated that it is in the interest of society and the nation that women have opportunities to move forward with full confidence, and everyone should strive for this.