PM Modi Advocates for a New Era in Indian Education, Calls to Revive the Spirit of Nalanda University

New Delhi: On the occasion of India's 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, emphasizing the need for a revolutionary shift in the Indian education system. In his speech, he highlighted his government's commitment to making Indian education so robust that young people no longer need to seek higher education abroad.

"Instead, people from abroad should come to India," Prime Minister Modi stated, stressing the importance of building a world-class education infrastructure within the country. He acknowledged the financial burden on middle-class families who spend substantial amounts to send their children abroad for education, aiming to eliminate this need through significant improvements in India's educational institutions.

Reviving the Legacy of Nalanda University

Before the march began, the atmosphere at Master Canteen Square was filled with the sounds of patriotic songs. Various groups performed these songs, stirring a sense of pride and unity among the participants and spectators. These performances set the tone for the day, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and the values that the Tricolor represents.

Prime Minister Modi also spoke about the recent revival of Nalanda University in Bihar, one of the oldest universities in the world, known for its rich history and significant contributions to global knowledge. In June, the new Nalanda University campus was inaugurated, representing a major step forward in preserving and celebrating India's rich educational legacy.

Massive Participation

"We've brought Nalanda University in Bihar back to life, and it’s now operational. However, our task is to rekindle the ancient spirit of Nalanda in the realm of education," the Prime Minister stated. He underscored the need to reignite the spirit of knowledge, innovation, and global thought leadership that Nalanda once represented. The Prime Minister expressed his vision of using this revived spirit to guide global knowledge traditions and position India as a global educational hub.

Focus on Vernacular Languages and Mother Tongues

Another key aspect of Prime Minister Modi's speech was the emphasis on the importance of vernacular languages in education. He pointed out that the new education policy introduced by his government has prioritised the use of local languages. "We have to focus on the place of mother tongues in our lives, education, and family," he said, urging educational institutions to embrace and promote the use of vernacular languages in teaching and learning.

Nation First: Reforms for the People

Prime Minister Modi took the opportunity to reflect on the wide-ranging reforms his government has implemented, stating that these changes were not merely for intellectual discussions or to please experts. Instead, they were part of a 'Nation First' pledge to advance the country and improve the lives of its citizens. He criticized previous governments for their "chalta hai" (lackadaisical) attitude towards reforms and development, noting that there was a time when the country was stuck in a status quo. "The common man wanted change, but his dreams were not appreciated and he kept waiting for reforms," Modi remarked. He reiterated that the reforms introduced by his government were aimed at benefiting the poor, middle class, deprived sections of society, and youth, bringing about tangible improvements in their lives.

A Vision for the Future

As Prime Minister Modi delivered his eleventh consecutive Independence Day speech, just months into his third term, his vision for the future of Indian education was clear: to create a system that not only meets the needs of its people but also attracts students and scholars from around the world. By reviving the legacy of Nalanda and fostering an education system that embraces both modern innovation and traditional wisdom, he seeks to position India as a global leader in knowledge and education. The Prime Minister's message resonated with millions across the nation, inspiring hope for a brighter future where Indian education stands tall on the world stage, and the dreams of the common man are finally realized.