Ancient India had world's highest number of universities, attracted students globally: Rajasthan Guv
Jaipur, June 9
Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde said on Tuesday that ancient India was home to the world's highest number of universities, with 19 centres of higher learning that attracted students from across the globe.
Interacting with students of Indian Institute of Information Technology Dharwad in Karnataka at Lok Bhawan under the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative, the Governor added that India has excelled in culture, knowledge and traditions since ancient times and stressed the need to restore the nation to that position of excellence.
Governor Bagde remarked that India's geographical boundaries in ancient times were far more expansive than they are today.
Referring to regions that now fall within Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, the Governor said these areas were once part of India's vast civilisational landscape.
He also highlighted the intellectual achievements of ancient India and added that students from distant countries travelled here in pursuit of education.
Speaking about the National Education Policy, Governor Bagde said it seeks to instill pride in India's rich heritage while equipping young people to emerge as leaders across sectors.
He stressed that students pursuing technology and professional education should also be familiar with the country's historical and cultural legacy.
The Governor also shared details about Rajasthan's tribal freedom fighter Kalibai and her contribution to India's freedom movement.
He said the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' is centred on nurturing talent and fostering national unity among the youth.
During the interaction, the Governor acquainted the students with Rajasthan's geography, culture and historical heritage.
He spoke about the diversion of Narmada waters from the Sardar Sarovar Dam to Rajasthan, the significance of Chittorgarh Fort and the history of the Gang Canal, regarded as one of the world's largest lined canals.
Secretary to Rajasthan Governor, Prithvi Raj, was also present on the occasion.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Very proud of our ancient universities. But why do our politicians always talk about glory days while ignoring current challenges? We have world-class IITs today, yet many students go abroad for research. Let's make India great again by fixing our current education system first.
Fascinating perspective! As someone from abroad, I never knew India had so many ancient universities. It puts things in context – India's civilisational journey is truly remarkable. The Narmada waters diversion to Rajasthan is also a great example of modern inter-state cooperation. 😊
Truth be told, I'm tired of this 'ancient greatness' narrative. Yes, we had great universities, but right now our school education is in shambles. Let's focus on making every village child literate rather than boasting about 2000-year-old achievements. Just my opinion.
Interesting to hear about Kalibai ji – our tribal freedom fighters are often forgotten. The Governor should also discuss why so many of our historical sites are neglected today. Taxila might be in Pakistan now, but we can still preserve what remains in India.
Coming from the UK, this is eye-opening. Ancient India's contribution to mathematics and astronomy is well known, but I never knew about 19 universities! However, shouldn't we also discuss what caused that golden age to decline? History is about learning, not just pride.
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