18-06-2026 : Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) attended the first convocation ceremony of Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora
Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note
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Lok Bhavan Nainital 18 June, 2026
Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) attended the first convocation ceremony of Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora, on Thursday and extended his congratulations and best wishes to the graduating students. He stated that this ceremony marks a golden chapter in the university’s history and that the students receiving their degrees today are the institution’s “foundation pillars,” whose conduct, achievements, and ideals will inspire future generations.
The Governor said that the sacred land of Almora has long been a center of cultural, spiritual, and intellectual consciousness. Enriched by the spiritual energy of Kasar Devi, Golu Devta, Baba Neem Karoli, and Maa Nanda-Sunanda, this region has guided the nation for centuries. Paying tribute to the great nationalist leader Late Soban Singh Jeena, he noted that the university established in his name is setting new benchmarks in education, research, and innovation.
The Governor appreciated the university’s efforts to promote traditional knowledge, skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He said that initiatives such as the Spiritual Tourism Centre, Happiness Lab, Harela Peeth, and Lakshmi Devi Tamta Centre are playing an important role in the holistic development of students. He also praised the university’s national and international collaborations, research initiatives, and patent achievements.
The Governor emphasized that research should not remain confined to books and laboratories but should serve as a means of solving real societal problems. He called for making research more relevant and useful in addressing issues related to mountain agriculture, medicinal herbs, water conservation, and local challenges. He also described the university’s initiatives in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as timely and forward-looking.
The Governor stated that the daughters of the state are excelling in every field, and the large number of female medal recipients at convocation ceremonies is a matter of great pride for Uttarakhand. He emphasized that women will play a vital role in building a Developed India. He also highlighted the achievements of Uttarakhand’s youth in sports and the armed forces.
Addressing the youth, the Governor said that they are not only witnesses to the vision of Developed India @2047 but also its drivers. He urged young people to dream big, embrace innovation, and place national interest above all else. He stressed that the spirit of “Nation First” is the foundation of nation-building and that national interest should guide every decision.
The Governor said that India’s true strength lies in the harmonious integration of its ancient knowledge traditions and modern science. He encouraged young people to take pride in their cultural roots, the Vedas, the Upanishads, and India’s rich intellectual heritage. He added that modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence can be utilized most effectively when combined with human values and Indian cultural principles.
Highlighting the role of teachers as the foundation of nation-building, the Governor said that teachers not only impart knowledge but also shape the character and personality of students. He emphasized that the true purpose of education is fulfilled when it is accompanied by integrity, compassion, humility, and moral values.
The Governor called upon the youth of Uttarakhand to connect “the strength of the mountains’ youth and the mountains’ water” with the state’s development. He said that young people should become job creators rather than job seekers. There are immense opportunities in organic farming, medicinal herbs, tourism, and startups, which can help address the challenge of migration from the hills.
Describing environmental conservation as Uttarakhand’s natural and spiritual responsibility, the Governor said that protecting the Himalayas, rivers, and forests is our duty toward future generations. He urged the youth to establish a balance between nature and progress and to present a model of sustainable development.
In his concluding remarks, the Governor encouraged students to remain lifelong learners, follow the path of truth and righteousness, and dedicate themselves to service of the nation. He expressed confidence that the university’s students, through their knowledge, values, and patriotism, would further elevate India’s prestige on the global stage.
On this occasion, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Satpal Singh Bisht, faculty members, distinguished guests, parents, and a large number of students were present.