28-03-2026:Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the occasion of the Third Convocation of Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Bharsar

Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the occasion of the Third Convocation of Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Bharsar

(Date: March 28, 2026)

Jai Hind!

It is a matter of immense joy, pride, and deep satisfaction for me to be present among you all at the Third Convocation Ceremony of Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Bharsar, situated in this sacred and valiant land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.

This convocation is not merely an occasion for the distribution of degrees, but a celebration of the resolutions, dreams, and unwavering confidence that are stepping out from this holy campus today to give new direction and new heights to the future of the nation.

The confidence and enthusiasm visible on the faces of each student present here today is not only a reflection of their personal success but also the result of the sacrifices of their parents, the guidance of their teachers, and the excellent academic tradition of this university. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students on this proud achievement and wish them a bright future.

We are proud that this university is named after the great freedom fighter Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Ji, whose life is a remarkable example of courage, duty, and patriotism. His ideals teach us that when it comes to the nation, self-respect, and humanity, we must always stand firmly on the side of truth and justice.

Dear Students,

As you cross an important milestone in life and begin a new journey, I would like to inscribe a guiding mantra in your minds—“Nation First.” A nation is not merely defined by geographical boundaries; it is built by the character, duty, and dedication of its citizens. Every effort, every research, and every innovation of yours should be linked to the progress of the nation.

The inspiring message of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam guides us all—that big dreams form the foundation of great transformations. By pursuing your education in a remote area like Bharsar, you have proven your remarkable ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Now is the time for your knowledge and skills to extend beyond personal success and contribute to the broader good of society and the nation.

Today, a new India is progressing with renewed confidence under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. His vision of “Developed India 2047” is not just a goal but a collective aspiration of 1.4 billion citizens. This vision leads us toward an India that is economically prosperous, environmentally balanced, and culturally strong.

In this direction, the fields of horticulture and forestry have a very significant role to play. Uttarakhand has immense potential to be developed as a “Horticulture Hub” and a “Multi-grain Hub.” Promoting millets like ‘Shri Anna’ at the global level, encouraging organic farming, and ensuring the balanced use of natural resources will contribute significantly to building a developed India.

Uttarakhand is not only a center of spiritual consciousness but also an “Ecological Powerhouse.” Its biodiversity and forest wealth are invaluable treasures. We must ensure a balance between development and environmental conservation.

Today, the challenges of climate change and natural disasters teach us that we must move forward in harmony with nature. In this context, your role is extremely important. You are not just degree holders but guardians of nature and future policymakers.

Dear Researchers and Scientists,

Your research will be meaningful only when it moves beyond laboratories and reaches the fields and society. The university’s innovations, development of improved crop varieties, and efforts toward biodiversity conservation are highly commendable. We must encourage research that directly contributes to increasing farmers’ income and strengthening the rural economy.

This is the era of technology and innovation. Artificial intelligence, drones, and digital technologies are bringing a new revolution in agriculture and forestry. Through “smart agriculture,” we can achieve unprecedented improvements in production, quality, and resource management.

I expect that you will not only use technology but also become innovators. Technology is meaningful only when it serves society, nature, and humanity.

Dear Youth,

The National Education Policy 2020 has given a new direction to education, emphasizing not only knowledge but also skills, innovation, and moral values. This policy encourages you not just to seek employment but to create employment.

Therefore, I urge you to move forward in the fields of entrepreneurship and startups. The land of Uttarakhand is highly suitable for organic farming, medicinal plants, and fruit production. By innovating in these areas, you can become self-reliant and also contribute significantly to the development of the state.

Dear Students,

This is not just a time for acquiring knowledge but for solving problems. Your contributions are greatly needed in areas such as environmental protection, climate change, and biodiversity.

When you step out of this university, you will carry not just a degree but also the values of this sacred land, the blessings of your teachers, and a spirit of service to the nation.

I would like to give you five guiding principles for life that will lead you in every situation:
Maintain a curiosity for continuous learning, make honesty the strongest foundation of your character, make discipline an integral part of your daily life, adopt a spirit of service toward society as the purpose of your actions, and move forward with courage and patience in every challenging situation.

Remember, your success will be considered complete only when it is connected to the progress of the nation. Wherever you go, elevate the name of India through your work and character, and contribute to realizing the vision of “Developed India 2047.”

Let us all together resolve to build an India that is prosperous, self-reliant, environmentally balanced, and a guiding force for the world.

With this belief and hope, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all of you for a bright, successful, and inspiring future.

Vande Mataram! Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Jai Hind!