VP Dhankhar attends SMVDU convocation in J&K, says national interest supreme

Katra, Feb 15 (PTI) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday attended the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) convocation here, emphasising that national interest is bigger than any political or individual interest.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Educational minister Sakeena Firdous also attended the 10th convocation at Matrika Auditorium of the SMVDU campus.

“We are Indians and being Indian is our identity. Nationalism is our religion and it is our duty to keep nationalism at the highest level whatever the situation,” the vice president said, addressing the convocation.

“No political or individual interest can be bigger than the national interest,” he said, highlighting India’s progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past 10 years.

We must march ahead, fast-tracking our journey toward a developed Bharat, he said. “One significant step in this direction is the transformation from the Danda Vidhan to the Nyaya Vidhan, unshackling the colonial mindset.”

“You are living in a confident and resilient India,” the vice president said.

Today, Bharat is being celebrated globally as a favorite destination for investment and opportunity. Never before in our history since independence has the voice of an Indian Prime Minister been so resonant with global leaders, he said.

Dhankhar emphasised that the transformation in Jammu and Kashmir is not just a regional phenomenon but a significant part of India’s national renaissance.

In the academic year 2023-24, a total of 684 students of the SMVDU have qualified for the Bachelor’s Degree in different disciplines; 147 students for Master’s Degree; 34 students for Integrated Master’s degree and 44 students for the award of Ph D Degree.

A total of 26 medals, nine certificates of distinction and 10 Infosys foundation prize for excellence were presented to the selected students by the dignitaries, a university official said.

He said a total of 501 male and 408 female students were awarded the degrees.