Srinagar, Feb 26 (JKNS): Vice President of India C.P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday urged the graduating students of the University of Kashmir to strengthen national unity, uphold democratic values and stay away from social evils, saying true success lies in character, compassion and responsibility.
Addressing the 21st Convocation of the University of Kashmir, as per news agency JKNS, VC Radhakrishnan said, connectivity initiatives across the country are not merely about infrastructure but about bringing people and hearts closer.
“When places are connected, people are connected. And when people are connected, hearts are closely connected,” he said, adding that such initiatives open new avenues for youth and foster national integration.
Highlighting the Prime Minister’s special scholarship schemes for students of Jammu and Kashmir, he said these programmes have acted as a bridge of opportunity and aspiration by enabling students to study in institutions across India. Referring to his tenure as Governor of Jharkhand, he recalled the introduction of the “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” programme and shared an anecdote about hosting Kashmiri students at Raj Bhawan, where special care was taken to respect their food preferences. “We are democrats. We can be proud of our sentiments, but we must never disrespect the sentiments of others,” he said.
The Vice President made a strong appeal to the youth to stay away from narcotic drugs, calling them a destructive force condemned by all religions.
“There is no single religion in this world which encourages narcotic drugs. Please keep away from them,” he urged, advising students to also counsel their peers and family members against substance abuse.
He also cautioned against excessive use of social media, saying addiction to digital platforms can hinder growth and productivity. “Everything should have its limitations. You must know how to allocate your time wisely that is your success,” he said.
Encouraging graduates to prepare for life’s challenges, he remarked that while students have so far answered questions set by professors, life will now present its own tests beyond the syllabus.
“There will be failures that test your courage and choices that test your character. Remain firm on the path of goodness,” he said, adding that success is measured not by how high one rises but by how firmly one stands during adversity.
Describing the degree as the beginning of new responsibilities, Radhakrishnan wished the graduates meaningful and impactful careers that bring pride to Jammu and Kashmir and the nation. Concluding his address, he called for a collective sense of belonging and unity, saying, “Not yours, not mine, it is our Kashmir,” and ended with “Jai Hind, Jai Bharat, Jai Jammu Kashmir.” (JKNS)
