PM Modi in Bihar to Inaugurate The New Campus of Nalanda University

PM Modi in Bihar to inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University

At around 10:30 AM today, the new campus of Nalanda University was inaugurated at Rajgir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Nalanda had a strong connection with India's glorious past, and it was anticipated that this university would significantly cater to the educational needs of the youth. The University was conceived as a collaboration between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) countries.

Several eminent people, including the Heads of Missions of 17 countries, attended the inauguration ceremony. The event was attended by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union Minister for External Affairs S. Jaishankar.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister expressed his delight and gratitude for visiting Nalanda within 10 days of taking his oath as Prime Minister for the third term, considering it a positive indication of India's developmental journey. "Nalanda is not just a name; it is an identity, a regard. Nalanda is the root, it is the mantra. Nalanda is the proclamation of the truth that knowledge cannot be destroyed even though books would burn in a fire," the Prime Minister exclaimed.

He emphasised that the establishment of the new Nalanda University would initiate a golden age for India. The Prime Minister also expressed joy that students from more than 20 countries were already studying at Nalanda University, stating that it perfectly symbolizes 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.

Here are the key points which can elaborate on the development impact:

              ASEAN-India University Network:

• • 17 countries, in addition to India, have signed bilateral and multilateral agreements to establish the university.
  • Nalanda University is working to create an ASEAN-India University Network.
  • The university’s Schools and Centres are designed to highlight its purpose.
  • The student community is diverse, drawing from many nations and regions.

Rebuilding Nalanda University:

• • Rebuilding Nalanda sends significant national and international messages.
  • The revival of Nalanda represents the restoration of a global bridge of learning.
  • Education, training, and capacity building promote international understanding, particularly towards the Global South.

Significance of the Occasion:

• • The event is notable for higher learning in India and marks India’s commitment to the East Asia Summit grouping.
  • It reflects the seriousness of India’s Act East policy.
  • India aims to be a Vishwa Bandhu (world friend), promoting friendship and cooperation with the international community.
  • This initiative helps revive ancient cultural connections, honors our shared heritage, and fosters an appreciation for the diversity of our world.

History of Nalanda in brief:

• Taranath, a Tibetan historian from the 16th-17th century, called Nalanda University "the mine of learning, honored Nalanda."
• During I-tsing's time at Nalanda, there were 3,700 monks.
• The entire Nalanda complex had around 10,000 residents.
• The university's structures were as grand and large as the knowledge they held.
• The main mound measured about 1,400 feet by 400 feet when excavations started.
• Hieun Tsang mentioned at least seven monasteries and eight halls.
• The monasteries were multi-storey buildings, and there was a library with three buildings, one of which was nine stories high.
• Islamic invaders, advancing through Afghanistan and northwestern India, destroyed Buddhist structures and killed Buddhist clergy.
• The word "but," referring to idols, comes from "Buddha."
• Nalanda was initially spared because it was not on the main routes.
• Eventually, the invaders arrived and destroyed Nalanda.
• Maulana Minhaj-ud-din, who wrote about this in the Tabakat-i-Nasiri, became known to rulers like Qutb-ud-din Aibak for his raids and the wealth he gathered.
• Minhaj-ud-din's raids earned him a robe of distinction and honor from Sultan Qutb-ud-din.
• Nalanda, with its high walls and large buildings, looked like a fortress to Ikhtiyar-ud-din and his force.
• Ikhtiyar-ud-din attacked Nalanda with 200 horsemen and successfully raided it.

The inauguration of Nalanda University in Bihar marks a significant milestone in India's educational and cultural renaissance. This revival of an ancient center of learning will not only elevate Bihar's educational landscape but also drive economic growth and enhance cultural prestige. As Nalanda University once again opens its doors to students from across the globe, it symbolizes a renewed bridge of knowledge, understanding, and shared heritage. This revival not only honors India's rich educational legacy but also sets the stage for a future of enhanced global partnerships and intellectual growth as well as Bihar’s position as a beacon of knowledge and innovation on the world stage.

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