President Murmu Urges Tribal Universities to Drive Development

President says Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh should nurture tribal leadership, innovation and self-reliance

  • President Droupadi Murmu addressed the first convocation of the Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh.
  • She said the university should emerge as a centre for tribal leadership and policy development.
  • President urged students to combine modern education with cultural roots and practical skills.
  • She called for innovation to improve tribal livelihoods and contribute to Viksit Bharat by 2047.

GG News Bureau
Vizianagaram, 30th June: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said the Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh should emerge as a hub for nurturing self-confidence, leadership and policymaking capabilities within tribal communities, while contributing to the inclusive development of the nation.

Addressing the first convocation ceremony of the university in Vizianagaram, the President said institutions established with the objective of social justice have a responsibility to work at the grassroots level in areas such as education, healthcare, skill development, livelihoods and protection of forest rights.

She expressed confidence that the university would play a significant role in the holistic development of tribal youth and other marginalised communities while contributing to the overall progress of the region.

Emphasising the importance of livelihood generation, Murmu said tribal universities should develop innovative systems to strengthen economic opportunities through forest produce, handicrafts, millets, medicinal plants, eco-tourism and local entrepreneurship.

Calling the convocation a defining milestone in students’ lives, the President urged graduates to continuously upgrade their skills to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. She encouraged them to complement classroom learning with practical knowledge gained from their surroundings and to remain connected to their communities, culture and traditions while serving society and the nation.

Highlighting the need to balance tradition with modernity, Murmu said India must preserve its rich heritage while ensuring that the benefits of science and technology reach every section of society. She appreciated the university’s initiatives, including its Science and Technology Hub, and its work in tribal welfare, public health, climate change, food and nutrition security, and energy conservation.

The President said these efforts would play an important role in building an equitable and developed India. Reiterating the national goal of achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047, she expressed confidence that the university’s inclusive and practical approach to education, coupled with its focus on environmental conservation, would help empower tribal youth and contribute significantly to India’s development journey.