Gurdaspur, Punjab: “India’s youth will play a decisive role in shaping the destiny of the nation and in realising the vision of a developed India by 2047. With their energy, innovation and commitment, the young generation will not only transform their own futures but also define the direction of the country in the decades to come.”
This was stated by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, while addressing the Annual Convocation Ceremony of Government College, Gurdaspur today. He awarded degrees to 247 students and honoured 5 meritorious students with the Roll of Honour.
Emphasising the importance of education in nation-building, the Lieutenant Governor urged students to cultivate a spirit of innovation, integrity and service. He said that the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” can only be achieved when the youth actively participate in governance, entrepreneurship, research and community development. He encouraged graduates to embrace challenges with confidence and to contribute meaningfully to society.
Highlighting the transformative power of knowledge and skill development, Shri Kavinder Gupta called upon educational institutions to focus on holistic learning that combines academic excellence with character-building. He stressed the need to harness technology, promote start-ups and create sustainable solutions to local and national issues.
Describing the occasion as deeply emotional and personally significant, the Lieutenant Governor recalled his own journey as a former student of the same institution. He said that standing on the college stage once again was like returning home, and acknowledged that his journey from the classroom to the office of the Lieutenant Governor was made possible by the blessings of his teachers, the values instilled by his parents and the discipline imparted by the institution. He emphasised that the transformation in his life was not about position, but about responsibility and service.
Highlighting his experience in Ladakh, the Lieutenant Governor said that serving in the high-altitude Union Territory is not merely an administrative assignment but a sacred commitment to nation-building. He spoke about his extensive tours across remote and border villages, interactions with soldiers’ families and youth, and underlined that governance is about service, trust and direct engagement with people.
He informed the gathering about the rapid development of higher education and research infrastructure in Ladakh, particularly at the University of Ladakh, where modern laboratories, digital libraries and advanced research technologies are strengthening academic excellence. He also shared his interactions with students of premier institutions like IIM Jammu and IIT Jammu, noting their spirit of innovation and dedication to national progress.
Referring to his participation in the India AI Impact Summit, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence and stressed that technology must serve humanity. He underscored that while AI offers immense opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture and governance, it must be guided by strong moral values and a commitment to inclusivity.
The Lieutenant Governor encouraged graduates to equip themselves with emerging technological skills and to leverage digital tools to create sustainable solutions that benefit society at large. He also urged them to use AI responsibly, ethically and innovatively to address real-world challenges, enhance productivity and improve public service delivery.
Later, the Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta was also conferred with the Shri Laxmi Chander Vishist Sewa Rattan Award in recognition of his distinguished public service and contribution to nation-building.
Congratulating the graduating students, Kavinder Gupta urged them to move forward with integrity, innovation and a spirit of service. He called upon them to become job creators, innovators and responsible citizens who contribute positively to society and the nation.
The Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes to the students for a bright and successful future and expressed confidence that the youth of India will play a decisive role in shaping the destiny of the nation.
Earlier, the Annual Report (2025–26) of the college was presented, highlighting academic achievements, cultural activities, sports accomplishments and various student development programs undertaken during the year.
Raman Bahl, Halqa Incharge Gurdaspur, and Dr. Sandeep Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, Bathinda, were also present.
Former Principals and senior faculty members including Professor Raj Kumar Sharma, Professor G.S. Kalsi, Om Prakash Ji, V.K. Maudgil, Kamal Kishore Atri, V.K. Singh and Professor J.S. Grover graced the ceremony.
Registrar Professor Seema Mahajan and Principal Ashwani Kumar Bhalla led the proceedings of the event.
On this occasion, Raman Bahl, Principal Ashwani Kumar Bhalla and former Principal Professor Raj Kumar Sharma also extended their best wishes to the graduating students.
The convocation ceremony commenced with the Academic Procession and concluded with the National Anthem.
