"Shaping India's destiny": PM Modi praises Nalanda Varsity for blending 'Shastrarth' tradition with modern tech
New Delhi, June 28
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the revival of the ancient Indian tradition of Shastrarth at Nalanda University, saying the institution is successfully blending India's civilisational heritage with modern education and technology.
Addressing the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', the Prime Minister recalled inaugurating the new campus of Nalanda University two years ago and praised the institution for reviving the age-old practice of reasoned debate.
"Two years ago, I had the opportunity to inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University. Nalanda University has revived our ancient tradition of 'Shastrarth'. Shastrarth is not just a medium to put forward one's point; it is a disciplined process of debate, dialogue, and brainstorming," PM Modi said.
He said the tradition teaches participants to present their views with logic and facts while also learning to patiently listen to and understand opposing perspectives.
The Prime Minister expressed happiness that Nalanda University had incorporated Shastrarth into its convocation ceremony, noting that nearly half of the participating students were from other countries.
"I am happy that Nalanda University made this a part of its convocation ceremony. About half of the students participating in it came from other countries. This effort to connect an ancient tradition with modern times is very commendable," he said.
PM Modi congratulated the university for the initiative and urged other higher educational institutions across the country to consider adopting similar practices.
Referring to the rapid pace of technological advancements, including artificial intelligence, the Prime Minister said preserving human creativity while embracing innovation remains a key challenge.
"Friends, this is the age of technology. New research is happening every day. New AI innovations are emerging. In this era, one question is very important: how to preserve people's creativity? How do we stay connected to our roots while moving forward with new technology?" he said.
The Prime Minister said Nalanda University has found the answer by combining India's ancient knowledge traditions with contemporary education.
"Our thousands-of-years-old Nalanda University is now shaping India's destiny in a new avatar," he added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The fact that half the students are international is impressive. We need more such institutions that showcase India's intellectual heritage to the world. But I hope this isn't just a photo-op—the government should also focus on improving basic education in rural areas where schools lack proper infrastructure.
As someone who studied abroad, I can appreciate this blend of tradition and modernity. The 'Shastrarth' tradition sounds like what we call a Socratic seminar in the West—structured debate with evidence. India is wise to reclaim this legacy while embracing AI and tech. Well done, PM Modi.
ये बहुत अच्छी बात है! (This is very good!) But let's be honest—Nalanda University gets all this attention because it's a pet project. Meanwhile, our regular universities are struggling with outdated curricula and zero research funding. Reviving ancient traditions is great, but let's not forget the basics.
I love the idea of 'Shastrarth'—it's not just about winning an argument but listening and understanding. That's something we desperately need in today's polarized world. If Indian universities can teach this, it will produce better thinkers and citizens. Kudos to Nalanda University! 🌟
PM Modi is absolutely right about the challenge of preserving human creativity in the age of AI. Algorithms can process data, but they can't replicate the depth of a reasoned debate rooted in ancient wisdom. Nalanda is showing the way—let's hope other institutions follow suit.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.