Congratulating the Gondwana University authorities for providing opportunities to the students in the backward Gadchiroli district President of India Droupadi Murmu appealed to the students to make these opportunities. It is the responsibility of the students to take the district from one of the most backward regions to one in the front line of the nation. The status can be achieved through the university.
Murmu was delivering the Convocation address at Gondwana University, Gadchiroli on Wednesday. Maharashtra Governor and Chancellor of the University Ramesh Bais, Vice-Chancellor Dr Prashant Bokare, Pro-VC Dr Shriram Kawale, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Sudhir Mumnagtiwar, Vijay Gavit, former minister Hansraj Ahir were present on the dais.
Murmu expressed happiness over the facilities in higher education and research provided by the university. The extension programmes for motivating tribals in remote areas to undertake higher education, acquire vocational skills and serve the nation. She also advised the students to have a sense of responsibility towards society and the nation.
Murmu stated that she had invited some members of the tribal community to the President’s official residence. People in urban areas should learn from the tribals on how to live in consonance with nature, she added.
Ramesh Bais said that the University should train the local youth in processing forest produce, packaging and marketing in the national and global markets. The university can also work on eco-tourism in the district.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said that a road network has been developed in Gadchiroli. From 92 Km before the BJP Government came into power, 529 km of roads have been constructed. He plans to improve the connectivity through road, rail and air.
Fadnavis assured that adequate funds will be made available for the development of the district and the University. He revealed that the government has a plan to develop an airport in the district.
Earlier Dr Bokare delivered the welcome address and gave information about the activities of the University.