India’s Youth are the Nation’s Greatest Strength, says Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari at SRMIST’s 21st Convocation

“India’s greatest strength is its youth, and our mission is to make the Indian economy the third largest in the world,” said Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, while addressing the 21st Convocation Ceremony of SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Kattankulathur.

Delivering the Convocation Address as the Chief Guest, Shri Gadkari highlighted the transformative power of knowledge, calling it the driving force behind innovation, entrepreneurship, science, technology, and skill development. “The ability to convert knowledge into wealth will define the future of every nation,” he said. “Our goal is to build an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat—a self-reliant, developed India that leads the world as a Vishwa Guru.”

He urged graduates to be torchbearers of innovation and sustainable development, adding that India’s progress depends on the youth’s ability to channel knowledge into action and ideas into impactful solutions.

During the ceremony, Prof. Bharat Bhasker, Director of the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, was conferred the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) for his exceptional contributions to science and technology.

Addressing the graduates, Prof. Bhasker said, “You are the future of this country. India is at a defining moment of transformation. Wherever you go—industry, research, or entrepreneurship—give your best with integrity and passion. The nation’s growth depends on your innovation and commitment.”

Presiding over the ceremony, Dr. T.R. Paarivendhar, Founder and Chancellor of SRMIST, reaffirmed the institution’s mission to foster excellence, research, and societal impact.

Presenting the Annual Report, Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor of SRMIST, shared the university’s key milestones: a third consecutive NAAC A++ accreditation, 11th rank in NIRF 2025, 491 patents, and 42 startups incubated this year. He also noted that scholarships worth ₹108.18 crores supported over 7,000 students, reinforcing SRMIST’s commitment to access and equity in education.

He added, “At SRMIST, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of excellence. Among this year’s 15,105 graduates, 55% of Ph.D. holders and 75% of rank holders are women. Two transgender students also graduated this year, underscoring our belief that every learner, every journey, and every identity deserves to be celebrated.”

This year, 15,105 degrees were awarded, including 6,686 undergraduate, 7,938 postgraduate, 388 doctoral, 11 PG Diploma, and 82 Diploma degrees. Of these, 9,324 were male, 5,779 female, and 2 transgender graduates. A total of 299 students received rank medals, with women excelling across multiple disciplines—particularly in agriculture and technology programs.

The convocation brought together thousands of graduates, faculty, and dignitaries in a celebration of achievement, diversity, and hope. The atmosphere was charged with pride and optimism, reaffirming SRMIST’s role as a leading institution shaping India’s educational and innovation landscape.