SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the students of the joining batch of 2023 of IIT Jammu at the inaugural session of the Foundation Program at Jagti Campus on Wednesday.
In his address on the occasion, Lt Governor congratulated and extended his best wishes to the students embarking on a new journey. He added that the world-class faculty at IIT Jammu will nurture their talents to transform their dreams into reality.
“India’s future offers immense opportunities for engineering careers. As the nation continues to invest in research and development, infrastructure, and technological advancement, a plethora of opportunities await engineers,” Sinha said.
He emphasised that under the guidance of the Prime Minister, India is on the move and is emerging as a technology and services hub powered by a knowledge economy. The ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’ initiatives, coupled with a burgeoning start-up ecosystem, present a fertile ground for young minds to make their mark and carve a successful career in engineering.
Lt Governor Sinha advised the students to explore new paths and keep reinventing themselves to keep pace with the change happening around the world.
“We need engineers who will not be confined to the mundane but who will think beyond textbooks, question the status quo, and embrace challenges as opportunities. The expertise of young engineers will be instrumental in driving the mission of Make in India and Start Up India,” Lt Governor said.
Citing examples of Japan and the USA, the Lt Governor highlighted that the engineering prowess of these countries has contributed to their growth and elevated their status in the world. He said the world’s greatest powers are witness to the fact that great engineers have been instrumental in propelling those nations to unparalleled heights.
“India needs engineers who can address the challenges of urbanization, infrastructure, and access to quality healthcare and education for all. Young engineers’ ideas and solutions can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society,” the Lt Governor said.
He also stressed the need for young engineers to collaborate globally, foster partnerships with other countries and institutions, and address complex global challenges. Lt Governor Sinha strongly believes that young engineers have the potential to not only make India self-reliant but also position it as a global leader.
The Lt Governor emphasised that universities, as the cradle of innovation, need to become the backbone of progress. By collaborating with industries and addressing real-world challenges, universities can produce graduates equipped with the skills to solve complex problems.
“Let us harness the power of innovation and engineering to build a better tomorrow. The opportunities that lie ahead in India’s journey are immense, and I have no doubt that young engineers’ brilliance and determination will drive our nation to new heights,” Sinha added.
He asked the students to aspire and start their new journey with an aim to leverage technology, knowledge, and wisdom to transform the nation.
Prof Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu, presented a detailed overview of the Five-day long Foundation Programme.
Padma Shri Dr Janak Palta McGilligan; Prof Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, SMVDU; Prof BS Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu; Dr Shakti Gupta, Director, AIIMS Jammu; S.P Mahi, CAO Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL); senior officers, prominent citizens, faculty members, and students were present.
