Srinagar/New Delhi, February 26, 2026: The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Thursday addressed the 21st Convocation Ceremony of the University of Kashmir in Srinagar, marking his first visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in his current office.
Congratulating the graduating students, the Vice-President said that while universities are recognised for infrastructure and academic excellence, their enduring legacy lies in the character and contributions of their alumni. Referring to the University, established in 1948, he lauded its academic growth and achievements, including its NAAC A++ accreditation, 34th rank in the NIRF University category, over 7,700 research publications since 2019, and initiatives such as the National Himalayan Ice-Core Laboratory.
Highlighting women’s empowerment, he expressed satisfaction that the Minister for Higher Education in Jammu and Kashmir, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, and a majority of gold medal recipients at the convocation were women. He termed this a significant indicator of social progress and educational advancement in the region.
Addressing the graduating cohort, the Vice-President underscored that they are stepping into a rapidly evolving world where “change is the only constant.” He urged them to continuously upgrade their skills, embrace innovation and contribute to nation-building through indigenous technological advancements aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
Referring to key developmental initiatives in the Union Territory under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the expansion of Srinagar International Airport and the landmark Chenab Rail Bridge, he said such projects are generating new opportunities and strengthening social harmony. He expressed hope that Srinagar would emerge as the cleanest city in the country under the Swachhta Survekshan with coordinated efforts of the administration.
Recalling his tenure as Governor of Jharkhand, the Vice-President mentioned an interaction with a delegation from Jammu and Kashmir under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, stating that mutual exchanges reinforce national integration. He emphasised that in a democracy, respecting others’ sentiments is as important as safeguarding one’s own.
In his concluding remarks, he advised the youth to stay away from drugs, exercise restraint in the use of social media, and uphold values of patience, courage and integrity. Stressing unity and collective belonging, he said, “Yah na mera Kashmir hai, na tumhara Kashmir hai — yah hum sabka Kashmir hai.”
The convocation ceremony was attended by Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Higher Education Minister Sakeena Masood Itoo, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, senior faculty members, distinguished guests, parents and graduating students.
