Governor presides over 2nd Convocation of Sardar Patel University
2 min read
SHIMLA 06 May, 2026
· Motivates graduates to be architects of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’
Governor Kavinder Gupta presides over the 2nd Convocation of Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi today. He exhorted the graduating class to transcend individual careers and dedicate their knowledge, innovation and moral sensibility to the collective mission of building a strong, self-reliant India.
The Governor said that the ceremony in the historic town known as ‘Choti Kashi’ was much more than just giving out degrees. He described it as a celebration of knowledge, culture and responsibility.
Referring to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the ‘Iron Man of India’ and the inspiration behind the university’s name, the Governor reminded students that the idea of national unity and integrity is still very important today, just as it was at the time of Independence. He lauded the university for installing a statue of Patel on campus, calling it a symbol of respect and a sign of the institution’s national vision.
He encouraged students to stay committed to Patel’s dream of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, linking the university’s values with the need for unity and pride in the country today.
The Governor also praised SPU Mandi for its progress in a short time. He appreciated its step-by-step introduction of the National Education Policy, the creation of a Bharatiya Gyan Parampara cell, holding its first convocation in traditional Indian dress, and setting up academic committees. He described these as positive and meaningful steps.
He also commended the university’s academic and cultural programmes celebrating Mandi’s 500-year history. He said that this effort of the university showed a strong sense of respect for history and culture.
