Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University at Rajgir, Bihar. Conceived as a collaboration between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) countries, this event was attended by the Heads of Missions from 17 countries and other notable dignitaries.
In his address, PM Modi highlighted Nalanda University’s historical significance as a beacon of academic excellence and cultural exchange. He emphasized that “Nalanda is not just a name. Nalanda is an identity, an honor, a value, a mantra, a pride and a saga,” underscoring its enduring legacy. The Prime Minister stated that the revival of Nalanda University marks the beginning of a golden age for India, noting that the institution symbolizes the indestructible nature of knowledge despite historical adversities.
PM Modi stressed that Nalanda’s revival is not merely about reclaiming India’s past but also about celebrating the shared heritage of multiple countries, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the EAS nations involved in its establishment. He recognized the contributions of friendly nations and the dedication of the people of Bihar in restoring Nalanda’s glory.
The Prime Minister also reflected on the historical importance of Nalanda as a center of continuous knowledge and education. He pointed out that the ancient Nalanda University admitted students irrespective of their identities and nationalities, a tradition he hopes the new campus will uphold. He praised the campus’s sustainable design, which incorporates Net Zero Energy, Emissions, Water, and Waste models.
Emphasizing education as a tool for human welfare, PM Modi cited examples like International Yoga Day and India’s contributions to global health through Ayurveda. He reiterated his mission for India to become a global center of education and knowledge, showcasing the country’s advancements in science, technology, and higher education over the past decade. This includes initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs, Startup India, and increased numbers of educational institutions and patents.
PM Modi also highlighted the role of the New Educational Policy in transforming India’s education system and the international collaborations that enhance higher education standards. He expressed hope that Nalanda University would emerge as a significant center for global education and sustainability, contributing to India’s aspiration of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The new Nalanda University campus features two academic blocks with 40 classrooms, two auditoriums, a student hostel, an international center, an amphitheater, a faculty club, and a sports complex. It is a ‘Net Zero’ Green Campus, incorporating solar power, water recycling, and other environmentally friendly facilities. The campus, designed by Vastu Shilpa Consultants, preserves the architectural ethos of the ancient Nalanda Mahavihara, utilizing only eight percent of the total area for construction.
The Prime Minister concluded by urging Nalanda students to embrace curiosity, courage, and kindness, embodying the values of the ancient university. He expressed confidence that Nalanda’s knowledge would guide humanity and that its students would lead the world towards a brighter future.
Governor of Bihar Shri Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister of Bihar Shri Nitish Kumar, Union Minister for External Affairs Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and other dignitaries were present at the inauguration. The ancient Nalanda University, dating back 1600 years, was among the first residential universities in the world and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.
