HPU celebrates its 56th foundation day

Shimla July 22

· Governor highlights role of ethics, innovation and youth in Nation building

Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, celebrated its 56th Foundation Day today with great enthusiasm and academic fervour. Governor and Chancellor of the University Shiv Pratap Shukla graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and extended his warm greetings to the faculty, students, alumni and the staff.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor lauded the university’s rich legacy of over five decades and its consistent contributions to academic excellence and social progress. He said that a university was not merely a center for higher education but center for learning, innovation and character-building. Urging the academic community to remain focused on value-based learning, he stressed the importance of research and innovation matching global standards.

Expressing satisfaction over the institution’s growth, the Governor noted that the university, which began with only eight departments, has now expanded to include 52 departments and currently serves over 7,000 students and 1,100 research scholars.

The Governor appreciated the establishment of five new interdisciplinary research and innovation centers in the University. He called upon faculty and students to actively engage with the objectives of the National Education Policy to make higher education more inclusive, modern, and impactful.

Highlighting his ongoing campaign for a “Drug-Free Himachal,” he urged the youth to play a proactive role in spreading awareness and fostering a healthy, addiction-free society. He also expressed deep concern over the increasing frequency of natural disasters in the state and called for integrating environmental sustainability into all developmental frameworks.

The Governor said that this university has produced prominent leaders in the fields of politics, science, law, literature, sports etc. and urged everyone to contribute towards building a developed India by the year 2047.

On the occasion, the Governor released the university’s student magazine Parisaamvaad, the university journal Himshikhar and a report on anti-drug activities. Cultural presentations included a folk song on drug abuse by Dr. Madan Jhalta and a performance by students Navneeta and Lakshya on the same theme.

Prof. Mahavir Singh, Vice Chancellor welcomed the Governor and spoke about the university’s vision of holistic development. He elaborated on the concept behind the newly established interdisciplinary centres which integrate diverse fields such as technology, law, management, social sciences and mathematics. He also emphasized the growing importance of artificial intelligence and innovation in the academic landscape.