CUJ Organized Lecture on Dr Ambedkar’s Vision of “Vikshit Bharat”

Jammu, 12 April 2024:  The Department of Educational Studies, Central University of Jammu under Shiksha Shastrarth Lectures’ Series organised a thought-provoking lecture on “Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s Vision of Viksit Bharat”.

The event was started with introductory remarks by Dr. Kiran. The lecture delved into the profound insights and visionary ideals of Baba Saheb Ambedkar regarding the development and progress of India. Dr Ambedkar, revered as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a stalwart in the fight against social discrimination, envisioned a Bharat that transcended the shackles of inequality and embraced holistic development. 

The event commenced with a warm welcome extended by the Dean of Students’ Welfare (DSW), who greeted the esteemed guests and keynote speakers. Reminiscing about Ambedkar’s enduring legacy, the DSW exhorted the youth to embrace and carry forward his vision of social justice and equality. Highlighting Ambedkar’s inclusive role in education and employment generation, attendees were encouraged to actively participate in the democratic process by exercising their right to vote.

The keynote address was delivered by Vinay Dhiman, Dean of the School of Basic and Applied Sciences, who shed light on Dr Ambedkar’s pivotal role in shaping the Indian Constitution and championing the cause of social justice. Dhiman’s insightful discourse emphasized the importance of Dr Ambedkar’s life and teachings in contemporary society. It was followed with an address by Sh. Jai Bhawani Singh who eloquently summarized key points from Dr Ambedkar’s 1949 speech. He emphasized the inseparable relationship between social and political democracy, highlighting Dr Ambedkar’s advocacy for constitutionalism over anarchy and the exclusion of Bhakti from politics.

Before his address, the Head of the Department, Prof. Asit Mantry conveyed his thanks to the Hon’ble Vice-chancellor, Prof. Sanjeev Jain, for his guidance and blessings in organizing such academic activities in the University. Prof. Asit Mantry reflected upon the significance of the lecture series “shastratha” and the five pillars of social harmony: environmental consciousness, family structure, social inclusivity, and civic duties. Prof. Mantry further engaged in discussions on Dr. Ambedkar’s struggles and the profound influence of figures such as Buddha, Kabir, and Phule on his life and thoughts.

On this occasion, faculties from various departments Prof. Ajay Pal Sharma, Prof. Neerendra, Prof. Ashok Yadav, Prof. Praveen, Prof. Naresh Sharma, Dr. Kiran, Dr. Mohan, Dr. Arvind, Dr. Aarushi and Dr. Shivali Khajuria were present. Research Scholars and students also participated by speaking and reciting poems on Dr. Ambedkar. It was followed by a Vote of thanks by Dr. Yad Ram, who expressed his utmost gratitude to all the participants for their active involvement and reaffirmed the commitment of the Department of Educational Studies and Central University of Jammu to perpetuating Dr Ambedkar’s legacy of social justice and equality.