CUKashmir celebrates 77th Republic Day and 150 Years of Vande Mataram
VC unfurls tricolor, expresses hope that University will establish national, global academic presence
26/01/2026
Ganderbal, January 26 (KIP)-Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) Monday celebrated the 77th Republic Day with fervour and enthusiasm at Tulmulla Campus. This year’s celebration held special significance as it coincided with the commemoration of 150 years of Vande Mataram song—a tribute to the timeless call that inspired India’s freedom struggle.
The occasion was marked by the unfurling of the Tricolour by Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath who also took the salute of the marching contingent of security guards and other staff members. Chief Proctor who was nominated as the Nodal Officer for Republic Day celebrations, had made all the requisite arrangements for the smooth conduct of the event.
Dean Academic Affairs, Registrar, Deans of Schools, Heads and Coordinators of Departments, Dean DSW, faculty members, administrative officials, research scholars, and students were present.
Extending Republic Day greetings to students, faculty, staff, Prof. A Ravinder Nath reflected on the spirit of the Constitution, underscoring the balance between Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties. He reminded the gathering that national commemorations are not merely ceremonial occasions, but moments of introspection—urging individuals to assess their contributions not only to the nation, but also to society, institutions, families, and themselves.
A major highlight of the address was the Vice-Chancellor’s announcement and appreciation of the University’s success in securing a significant grant for the establishment of its permanent campus, stating that the approval marks a huge milestone in the University’s journey and will soon translate into visible transformation on the ground. The development, he noted, is not merely infrastructural but deeply academic in its implications, reinforcing the University’s role as a key driver of knowledge creation, innovation, and human capital development in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Calling upon the University community to envision the future campus with imagination and a shared sense of ownership, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath reflected on the rapidly changing global education scenario, where excellence is increasingly driven by innovation, efficiency, and accountability. He noted that in an era marked by technological integration, interdisciplinary learning, and heightened global competitiveness, institutions of higher learning must cultivate precision in academic processes, respect for time, and a strong sense of institutional responsibility. Emphasising India’s aspirations to emerge as a global knowledge hub, he underscored the need for universities to internalise these values to achieve sustainable academic excellence and national educational goals.
Vice-Chancellor noted that global collaboration rests on three pillars—connectivity, mobility, and assured employability. He emphasized the need for structured action plans to identify, nurture, and promote talent, especially as global institutions increasingly look beyond Tier-1 universities to include Tier-2 and Tier-3 institutions like the Central University of Kashmir.
Turning to internal reforms, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath underscored that the realisation of Viksit Bharat @2047, as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, rests significantly on timely execution of policies and proactive engagement of the entire academic community. He emphasised the collective role of students, research scholars, and faculty members in translating vision into action, particularly through innovation-driven initiatives such as the introduction of start-up grants. Such measures, he noted, are instrumental in nurturing entrepreneurship, fostering self-reliance, and positioning universities as key engines of national development in the journey towards a developed India.
Reiterating that institutional growth precedes individual advancement, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized commitment, conviction, and measurable outcomes as non-negotiable elements of governance. He called for a unified effort among students, scholars, teaching and non-teaching staff, and administrators to sustain the University’s standing as a premier institution of higher education.
Prof. A Ravinder Nath underscored the University’s social responsibility through several community-centric initiatives. These programmes, he said, aim to promote academic assistance, cleanliness drives, and environmental consciousness both on campus and in nearby villages. He further outlined the University’s emphasis on threefold internships—research, industry, and community engagement—to enhance employability and nation-building.
He announced that the University is in the process of formulating comprehensive policies including energy, water, green campus, smart campus, digital campus, and cybersecurity policies, with incentives for active student and scholar participation.
Sr. Asst Prof. Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal conducted the programme proceedings and proposed the vote of thanks.
The Republic Day function was also held at varsity’s Green Campus, wherein Prof. Farooq Ahmad Shah, Deptt of Management Studies, unfurled tricolor and addressed the participants, urging them to uphold the constitutional values, academic distinction, and service to the nation. The proceedings were conducted by Sr Asst Prof. Dr. Gulafroz Jan.
India has made remarkable progress in science, technology and digital innovation: Dir NIT Srinagar
Institute celebrates 77th Republic Day with patriotic fervour
Srinagar, Jan 26: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit on Monday.
In-Charge Director Prof. (HAG) Roohi Naaz presided over the function and unfurled the Tricolour at Campus's playground, reaffirming NIT Srinagar’s commitment to excellence, innovation and service to the nation.
The celebrations were attended by Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, Deans, Heads of Departments and Centres, faculty members, administrative officers, staff members. Security In-Charge Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat served as the Nodal Officer for the programme, while Dr Aravi Muzaffar conducted the event proceedings with patriotic zeal.
Multiple contingents participated in the parade, Institute’s Security Wing was led by Manzoor Ahmad Shah (1st), Manzoor Ahmad Mir (1), and Mohammad Ismayil Akhoon serving as the Parade Commanders. The In-Charge Director took the salute from the Parade Commanders and inspected the parade contingents during the march-past.
In his message, Chairman BOG, NIT Srinagar Dr. Milind Pralhad Kamble said Republic Day is a reminder of India’s democratic values, constitutional ideals and collective responsibility towards nation-building.
"NIT Srinagar plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation through quality technical education, research and innovation. We should collaborate towards strengthening India’s knowledge economy and realising the vision of a developed nation," he added.
Addressing the gathering on behalf of Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Prof. Roohie Naaz said that Republic Day is not merely a celebration of a historic date but a celebration of the spirit of the nation.
She recalled that on January 26, 1950, India adopted its Constitution, giving shape to the aspirations and sacrifices of millions who struggled for freedom.
“In recent years, India has made remarkable progress in science, technology, infrastructure, digital innovation and social development. Our nation is emerging as a global leader in areas such as space technology, renewable energy, digital governance and entrepreneurship. These achievements reflect the vision of our leaders and the hard work of our people,” Prof. Roohie said.
Director also called upon students and scholars to cultivate curiosity, creativity and courage. Embrace technology, but remain grounded in ethics and human values. Use your talent to bridge gaps, reduce inequalities and contribute to sustainable development,” she added.
“Educational institutions must act as catalysts of change, and NIT Srinagar is determined to play its role with dedication and excellence. The institute serves as a vital bridge between innovation and societal progress as the nation moves towards the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’," she added.
On the occasion, Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman highlighted the responsibility of institutions like NIT Srinagar in shaping the nation’s future.
“As an institution of national importance, we carry a profound responsibility to nurture knowledge, promote scientific temper, encourage innovation and uphold values of integrity and social responsibility. Our faculty, staff and research scholars play a pivotal role in advancing education, research and national development,” he said.
Prof.Rehman said in an era of rapid technological change and global challenges, the role of educational institutions extends beyond academic excellence.
“We must strive to contribute meaningfully to society, strengthen ethical foundations and work towards an India that is prosperous, peaceful and just,” he said.
Later Tricolour was also unfurled at the Fountain Park, where Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman hoisted the national flag. The ceremony was attended by administrative officers, staff and members of the Institute’s security wing.
Faculty, staff, and scholars joined the official Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, where Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary hoisted the national flag.