Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh), Sep 1 (UNI) Emphasising on attaining the cherished objective of a gender-equal society, President Droupadi Murmu averred on Friday that a greater quantum of universal cooperation is imperative in order to make education the vehicle for empowerment of women.
Addressing the 10th Convocation of the Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya here on the second and concluding day of her Chhattisgarh sojourn, the First Citizen said, “This is essential in the light of the obvious fact that approximately half our country’s population comprises females.
In Guru Ghasidas’ words ‘Mankhe-mankhe ek samaan’ meaning that all are equal. He picked up the gauntlet for social welfare of the deprived, the backward and womenfolk. I am elated that 45 daughters are among recipients of gold medals at this event, which is about 60 per cent of the total figure. Atmosphere and encouragement make noteworthy contributions. It has been conveyed to me that this university also undertakes social-service programmes.
I hope these will yield positive outcomes. A sizeable tribal population resides in the vicinity of your academic institution. Our adivasi brethren can be a source for learning how one can be sensitive towards nature and ensure participation of women in various aspects of existence.”
Highlighting the success of the Chandayaan-3 mission, the President underlined that a wave of enthusiasm is being experienced by every Indian.
“Our Tricolour reached the lunar surface; the energy of Shiv-Shakti was thus conveyed. The milestone – crossed after years of tireless endeavour – is a lasting testament to the sentiment that we must advance relentlessly in the direction of our goal while remaining undaunted by temporary challenges that dot our path. Today, India is a proud member of the global nuclear and space clubs owing to the Herculean efforts of our scientists. We play a role vis-à-vis international decisions in those two spheres,” she added.
Touching on the nation’s rich traditions, Mrs Murmu said the former were established through the priceless contribution of numerous towering personalities who never shirked struggle.
“Swami Vivekananda exhorted the populace to be fearless, stressed on the importance of sports for physical development and was an icon of self-confidence. During the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, he declared the supremacy of Indian culture in an era when the slave mentality was at its heights and imperialism ruled the roost in Asia where an atmosphere of violence prevailed.
Today, India ranks among the leading nations. Amrit Kaal is kartavya kaal therefore every citizen – especially pupils – should perform their fundamental duties,” the President said during her 12-minute-long speech.
Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Renuka Singh Saruta, Governor Biswabhusan Harichandhan and Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel.
This is Mrs Murmu’s maiden visit to the state after assuming the mantle of the nation’s highest constitutional office.
