President Highlights Power of Mother Tongue, Ancient Knowledge and Inclusive Growth at Fakir Mohan University Convocation

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, graced and addressed the convocation ceremony of Fakir Mohan University and inaugurated its new auditorium at Balasore in Odisha on February 3, 2026.

Addressing students, faculty members and dignitaries, the President paid rich tributes to eminent Odia writer and social reformer Vyasakabi Fakir Mohan Senapati, after whom the university is named. She recalled her deep personal connection with his literary legacy, noting that during her student days she was profoundly influenced by his timeless short story 'Revati'.

Fakir Mohan Senapati's Enduring Influence

The President described Revati as a powerful narrative of a young girl's determination to pursue education in the 19th century, calling it an enduring testament to the spirit of women's empowerment. She shared that the story left an indelible impression on her own life journey.

Recalling her personal experiences, President Murmu said she studied in a remote tribal village and, through firm resolve, went on to Bhubaneswar to complete her high school and college education. In this way, she noted, Fakir Mohan Senapati remained a lifelong source of inspiration for her.

Importance of Education in the Mother Tongue

Highlighting Fakir Mohan Senapati's deep love for the Odia language, the President quoted his words, "My mother tongue is supreme to me." She emphasised that receiving education in one's mother tongue enables students to better understand their surroundings, customs and cultural environment alongside academic learning.

She said education in the mother tongue helps students remain rooted in their civilizational values and way of life. In this context, she underlined that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 places strong emphasis on the use of mother tongue and regional languages, guiding students to stay connected with their cultural heritage while acquiring modern knowledge.

India's Rich Knowledge Traditions

The President spoke at length about India's vast and rich knowledge tradition, stating that the country's scriptures and ancient manuscripts are repositories of deep wisdom. She noted that beyond poetry and literature, these texts contain valuable knowledge in fields such as science, medicine, astronomy and architecture.

She encouraged young students and researchers to explore and conduct research in India's ancient knowledge systems, adding that understanding the past and comprehending the present would enable them to shape both their own future and the future of the nation.

Advice to Graduating Students

Congratulating the graduating students, President Murmu said that with the strength of knowledge, passion and commitment, they could earn respect and recognition in society. She stressed that dedication remains the key to success in every endeavour, regardless of one's chosen path.

The President drew a distinction between a successful life and a meaningful life. While acknowledging that success, fame, prestige and financial security are important, she said making life meaningful by contributing to the welfare of others is even more significant.

She urged students to support those who have been left behind in the development process, stating that true societal development lies in the development of everyone.

Appreciation for University's Research and Outreach

Expressing happiness over Fakir Mohan University's emphasis on research and outreach programmes alongside academic studies, the President noted that the Balasore-Bhadrak region is well known for paddy cultivation, betel leaves and fisheries.

She appreciated the university for conducting research and training programmes in these sectors, describing them as vital for regional development. She also lauded initiatives such as Back to School, Earn While Learn, Each One Teach One, environmental awareness programmes and beach cleaning drives.

The President particularly praised the university's foresight in proposing specialised research centres on blue crabs or horseshoe crabs, species found in abundance along the beaches of Balasore and Bhadrak.

Universities as Catalysts of National Development

Concluding her address, President Murmu said that the growth, security and technological development of all sections of society would accelerate India's overall progress. She emphasised that universities across the country have a crucial role in this transformation.

She stated that institutions of higher learning have a special responsibility to act as catalysts for inclusive growth, innovation and social change. By nurturing critical thinking, ethical leadership and research that responds to both local and global challenges, universities can help build a future that is sustainable, equitable and rooted in human values.

Expressing confidence in Fakir Mohan University's academic vision and community engagement, the President said she was certain the institution would play a transformative role in advancing inclusive development and nation-building.