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In a momentous occasion that celebrated India's rich educational heritage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of the renowned Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar. This landmark event marked a significant step in the resurrection of one of the world's oldest centers of learning, which had long remained in ruins before being revived in the 21st century.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by distinguished guests including the External Affairs Minister and ambassadors from 17 countries, underscored the global significance of this institution and its potential to reclaim its former glory as a hub of intellectual discourse and cross-cultural exchange. As PM Modi unveiled the plaque and planted a sapling, he extolled the virtues of Nalanda's legacy, emphasizing its role in shaping India's educational identity and its continued relevance in the modern era.
Recounting the Storied History of Nalanda University
Nalanda University, originally established in the 5th century CE, had once been a renowned institution that attracted scholars from across the globe. For eight centuries, this prestigious seat of learning thrived, until it was tragically ravaged by invaders in the 12th century. The archaeological site of Nalanda, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the grandeur of this ancient institution, showcasing the remnants of its stupas, shrines, and viharas that once served as residential and educational facilities.
Reviving the Nalanda Legacy in the 21st Century
The modern-day Nalanda University, reestablished in 2014, has been conceived as a collaborative effort between India and the East Asia Summit (EAS) countries. Starting operations from a temporary location with just 14 students, the university has since grown in stature, now offering a range of academic programs through its six schools: the School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions; the School of Historical Studies; the School of Ecology and Environmental Studies; and the School of Sustainable Development and Management.
Unveiling the State-of-the-Art New Campus
The new Nalanda University campus, inaugurated by PM Modi, represents a significant milestone in the institution's revival. Built at a cost of Rs 1,749 crore, the campus features two academic blocks with 40 classrooms, capable of accommodating around 1,900 students. It also boasts two auditoriums, each with a seating capacity of 300, and a student hostel that can house approximately 550 students.
Designed as a 'Net Zero' Green Campus, the new Nalanda University facility is a testament to India's commitment to sustainable development. The campus is equipped with solar plants, domestic and drinking water treatment plants, a water recycling system for reusing wastewater, and expansive water bodies spanning 100 acres, all contributing to its self-sustaining nature.
Moreover, the university's global outlook is reflected in its strong international partnerships. Nalanda University has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 17 countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, and Thailand, paving the way for cultural and academic exchange. The institution also offers 137 scholarships to international students, attracting a diverse cohort from countries such as Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Ghana, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, the USA, and Zimbabwe.
Highlighting Nalanda's Pioneering Achievements
During his address, PM Modi underscored Nalanda University's pioneering achievements, emphasizing that it will be the first campus in India to operate on a 'Net Zero' model for energy, emissions, and waste. He described the institution as a guiding light that will inspire the world with its innovative and environmentally conscious approach.
The Prime Minister also noted that Nalanda University is working towards establishing an ASEAN-India University network, a move that will further strengthen cultural and academic ties between India and its Southeast Asian neighbors. Additionally, the university is undertaking the documentation of various artworks from India and the region, as well as setting up a Common Archival Resources Centre, cementing its role as a hub for cultural exchange and preservation.
Recognizing Nalanda's Enduring Legacy
PM Modi's words during the inauguration ceremony were a testament to the enduring legacy of Nalanda University. He described the institution as an "identity, an honor, a value, a mantra, a pride, a saga" – a profound proclamation that underscored the deep reverence and significance attached to this ancient seat of learning.
The Prime Minister's personal visit to the excavated ruins of Nalanda, prior to the inauguration, further emphasized the symbolic importance of this occasion. As he walked amidst the remnants of the past, PM Modi acknowledged the profound insights that this historic site offers into India's scholarly heritage, which continues to inspire and guide the nation's educational journey.
Celebrating the Auspicious Inauguration
PM Modi's personal involvement in the inauguration of the Nalanda University campus holds deep significance. He described the occasion as not only his own good fortune but also an "auspicious sign" for India's development journey, underscoring the profound importance he attaches to this landmark event.
The presence of distinguished guests, including the External Affairs Minister and ambassadors from 17 countries, further emphasized the global resonance of this moment. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's enthusiastic welcome and the shared light-hearted moment with PM Modi during the ceremony added to the celebratory atmosphere, reflecting the collective pride and excitement surrounding the revival of this historic institution.
Envisioning Nalanda's Transformative Role
As the new Nalanda University campus takes shape, it stands as a beacon of hope for India's educational landscape. The institution's commitment to sustainability, global collaboration, and the preservation of cultural heritage positions it as a transformative force, not only within the country but also on the international stage.
PM Modi's vision for Nalanda University as a guiding light, inspiring the world with its innovative approach, is a testament to the high expectations placed on this revived institution. As it embarks on this new chapter, Nalanda University is poised to reclaim its rightful place as a global hub of intellectual discourse, cultural exchange, and the nurturing of future leaders – a true embodiment of India's enduring educational legacy.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the new Nalanda University campus marks a pivotal moment in the revival of one of the world's most renowned centers of learning. Under the leadership of PM Modi, this historic event has rekindled the spirit of Nalanda, showcasing India's commitment to preserving its rich educational heritage and positioning the country as a global leader in the realms of academia, sustainability, and international collaboration.
As the new campus takes shape, it stands as a testament to the vision and determination of the Indian government, the state of Bihar, and the global community that has come together to revive this iconic institution. The future of Nalanda University holds immense promise, as it prepares to shape the next generation of leaders and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and cultural understanding on a global scale.