President of India Droupadi Murmu attended the seventh convocation ceremony of Sikkim University at Gangtok on Tuesday, where she lauded Sikkim for its achievements in environmental conservation, organic farming, and literacy.
Addressing students and faculty during the convocation ceremony, the President highlighted Sikkim’s unique cultural and ecological identity and praised the people of the state for their commitment towards preserving nature.
The President said, “Sikkim holds a distinct identity for its natural beauty, culture and biodiversity. Kanchenjunga, one of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, stands as nature’s invaluable gift to Sikkim. The people of Sikkim revere this peak as their guardian deity. A profound sense of responsibility toward the conservation and nurturing of nature is evident among them.”
Praising the state’s environmental initiatives, she added, “It is a matter of immense pride for Sikkim that it became India’s first fully organic state in 2016. I am happy to note that Sikkim has demonstrated that development and nature conservation can indeed go hand in hand.”
She said that efforts such as reducing plastic use, promoting organic farming, and protecting the environment serve as an inspiration for the rest of the country.
The President also congratulated the people and government of Sikkim for achieving full literacy status. She remarked, “It is a matter of pride for all fellow citizens, especially the people of Sikkim, that Sikkim has now become a fully literate state.”
Emphasising the importance of the North-East in India’s growth story, President Murmu said the development of the region is essential for inclusive national progress. She encouraged students from Sikkim and other states to work collectively towards nation-building and contribute to the upliftment of marginalized communities.
Highlighting the role of educational institutions, she said Sikkim University carries a special responsibility not only as a centre of education and research but also in preserving the region’s language, culture, and environment.
The President stressed that education is a key instrument for self-reliance and urged students to believe in their abilities, learn collaboratively, and work with long-term goals to contribute towards building a developed India by 2047.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu flagged off the ‘Ama Didi Bahini Bus Sewa’ — pink buses dedicated for women — along with Resource Recovery vehicles for solid waste management in Gangtok.
President Murmu Hails Sikkim’s Achievement as Fully Literate State
By Digital Desk
