Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday said that in an era marked by conflict, division and intolerance, the principle of non-violence espoused by Mahatma Gandhi offers a powerful way forward for humanity.
Addressing the third convocation of Mahatma Gandhi Central University in East Champaran district of Bihar, he underlined the enduring relevance of Gandhian ideals in navigating contemporary global challenges.
“We all know that Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment in Bihar, and Gandhi found his true ‘karma bhoomi’ in this very land of Champaran,” he said, situating the region within India’s broader civilisational and philosophical legacy.
Radhakrishnan noted that Bihar has historically been a cradle of transformative ideas and movements. “Be it Buddhism, Jainism, or the idea of socialist revolution, everything took shape here,” he said.
He also recalled the contributions of prominent figures associated with the state, including Jayaprakash Narayan, describing him as a leader who shaped the moral and political conscience of the country. Sharing a personal anecdote, the vice president said he had a deep association with the JP movement in 1974 as a young district general secretary in Coimbatore.
Radhakrishnan further remembered leaders such as Karpoori Thakur and India’s first President Rajendra Prasad, along with philanthropist Maharani Janki Kunwar, for their role in uplifting the socio-political fabric of the nation.
Congratulating the graduating students, he urged them to embrace nationalism and contribute towards building a “healthy and resilient society that never accepts non-ethical things”.
“As you receive your degrees today, you are expected to serve as torchbearers of India’s rich legacy. May you carry forward the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and contribute to the realisation of a strong, prosperous, and well-developed India,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of emerging technologies, the vice president said fields such as artificial intelligence and data science are redefining possibilities and opening new avenues for growth and innovation. He encouraged students to embrace these advancements with curiosity and responsibility, ensuring that technological progress aligns with ethical values.
He also noted the university’s focus on specialised research and its commitment to reviving India’s traditional intellectual heritage, alongside promoting sports and fitness under the Fit India movement.
Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain and Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary were among those present at the event.
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