Presiding over the 25th Convocation of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU)* at Belagavi, the Governor said that technical education has been instrumental in strengthening major national initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
"Technical education significantly shapes both an individual's future and a nation's progress. A technologically empowered society can compete successfully at the global level. Therefore, it is essential to make technical education quality-driven, inclusive and innovation-oriented, so that India can emerge as a knowledge-based, self-reliant and developed nation," he emphasized.
Referring to the ongoing Amritkaal, the Governor said that achieving the vision of a developed India requires engineers, scientists and technical professionals to adopt solution-oriented thinking. "By embracing indigenous technologies, self-reliance and a culture of innovation, our youth can play a decisive role in nation building," he said.
Commending Visvesvaraya Technological University for its achievements, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot noted that the university has made significant strides in research, innovation and industry collaboration. He congratulated Vice Chancellor Professor S. Vidyashankar and his team for their efforts and expressed hope that VTU would continue to evolve as a strong hub of innovation, where ideas generated in laboratories directly address societal challenges.
Addressing the graduating students, the Governor said that true success is built not only on intellectual capability, but also on character, integrity and compassion. "Technology must be blended with human values. Consider change as an opportunity, failure as a learning experience and success with humility. Bring pride to your parents, teachers and institution, and dedicate your knowledge and skills to the upliftment of the underprivileged sections of society," he urged.
Highlighting the importance of technological advancement in national development, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot said it requires a strong foundation of theoretical knowledge, practical exposure, research and innovation. Established in memory of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, VTU has today grown into the largest technical university in the country, he noted.
Recalling Sir M. Visvesvaraya's contribution, the Governor said that his life exemplifies how technical excellence, discipline and national service together drive real progress. Quoting the visionary engineer, he said, "Technical skills are meaningful only when they are linked to the welfare of society." He called upon students to embody these ideals in their professional and personal lives.
"The present era is driven by knowledge, innovation and a skill-based economy. Fields such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, data science, robotics, renewable energy and biotechnology are reshaping human life. By developing skilled human resources in these areas, India is strengthening its position in global competition," he added.
Chief Guest Rear Admiral Vikram Menon, Vice Chancellor Professor S. Vidyashankar and other distinguished dignitaries were present on the occasion.
