Says “Achievements In Research, AI, Start-ups commendable”
“ Resolve To Make SMVDU Innovation Hub, Ideas & Dreams Build Universities”
“Students, Alumni Measure University’s Success, Research Must Solve Real Problems”
“Indian Universities Facing Challenges, Universities Must Create Opportunity Builders”
Jammu: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha Wednesday attended the 23rd Foundation Day celebrations of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU). He felicitated achievers and delivered a keynote address outlining a vision for the University’s future and its role in nation-building.
Extending warm greetings to the University family, the Lieutenant Governor described the day as a celebration of foresight, resolve, and sustained efforts that have transformed SMVDU into a centre of knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility. He emphasised that the University carries in its name the tradition of devotion, strength, and faith.
The Lieutenant Governor stated that a university is built by ideas, dreams, and possibilities. He highlighted the role of visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, and curious students in shaping institutions that nurture knowledge, humility, and sensitivity towards society.
Reflecting on SMVDU’s journey, the Lieutenant Governor lauded its achievements in education and research. He noted that faculty members have secured around 140 research projects, including international collaborations, and established an AI and Deep Learning Lab. The University has received 14 patents, incubated 30 start-ups, and launched peer-learning programmes. He urged the institution to strengthen industry–academia relations through open-house meetings to commercialise innovations.
The Lieutenant Governor stressed that the true measure of a university’s success lies in its students and alumni. He encouraged SMVDU to leverage government initiatives such as the Rs. 1 lakh crore research fund announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15 and the PM Research Chairs scheme.
He called upon the Vice-Chancellor to constitute a team of faculty members and students to maximize applications for the central research fund. He underscored that education is the most powerful investment for universities, society, and the nation, citing foreign university models of revenue generation through innovation.
Identifying challenges facing Indian universities—including limited research, faculty shortages, lack of accountability, and weak industry linkages—the Lieutenant Governor urged institutions to ask, “What problems must we solve?” He emphasised transforming students into creators of opportunities rather than job seekers.
Pointing to India’s strengths in low-cost innovation, diversity, and its diaspora, the Lieutenant Governor urged SMVDU to address real-world challenges in healthcare, the rural economy, urbanisation, and digital innovation. He called for promoting sports, arts, literature, debates, and cultural activities alongside science and technology.
Looking ahead, the Lieutenant Governor presented a vision for SMVDU by 2040, urging it to establish advanced research facilities in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and climate science, while developing digital learning networks across rural Jammu and Kashmir. He also invited suggestions for establishing an International Museum of Goddess at Katra and inaugurated a Self-Help Group’s Bakery unit at the campus.
Prominent dignitaries present included Shrine Board members Dr Ashok Bhan, Suresh Kumar Sharma, and Ms Gunjan Rana; Principal Secretary to L-G, Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari; VC SMVDU, Prof. Pragati Kumar; CEO Shrine Board, Sachin Kumar Vaishya; along with senior civil and police administration officials.
