- C P Radhakrishnan calls for adaptability, ethical leadership and lifelong gratitude to parents and teachers
The Vice-President of India, C P Radhakrishnan, addressed the convocation ceremony of Lovely Professional University (LPU) at Phagwara in Punjab on 9 January 2026, calling upon the youth to combine professional excellence with ethical responsibility in service of the nation and humanity.
Speaking on the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Vice-President said India stands at a defining juncture as it moves towards the centenary of its Independence. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he noted, the country has set an ambitious yet achievable goal of building a developed, self-reliant, inclusive and confident India. This vision, he said, extends beyond economic growth to encompass social harmony, ethical leadership, cultural confidence, technological self-reliance and inclusive development, with its realisation depending largely on the energy, competence and character of the youth.
Clarifying India’s aspiration to emerge as a major global power, the Vice-President said the objective is not to dictate terms to smaller nations, but to ensure that no other country can dictate terms to India. Highlighting the rapidly changing global landscape, he observed that what was relevant even five years ago may soon lose relevance. Change, he said, is the only constant, and adaptability and lifelong learning are essential for sustained success.
Advising students not to compare their success or failures with others, the Vice-President emphasised that every individual follows a unique journey and pace in life. Referring to the lives of Abraham Lincoln and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said consistent effort, perseverance and integrity can take individuals from humble beginnings to positions of great responsibility. While living for oneself is not wrong, he added, living only for oneself diminishes the larger purpose of life.
Outlining three guiding principles for students, the Vice-President urged them to practise effective time management, avoid shortcuts that undermine long-term success, and never give up. He recalled the words of Swami Vivekananda, “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.”
The Vice-President also commended the University’s Jai Jawan Scholarship, which honours the sacrifices of armed forces personnel and their families by providing educational support. Referring to the University’s conduct during Operation Sindoor, he said such initiatives reaffirm that universities are not merely centres of learning but institutions that help build national character.
Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse on campuses, the Vice-President described it as a grave threat to youth and society, and urged students to say a firm and unequivocal no to drugs by choosing discipline, purpose and healthy living.
In conclusion, he reminded students to remain forever grateful to their parents and teachers, whose guidance, sacrifices and values shape their character and destiny.
