Muzaffarpur, June 24 (UNI) Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar today described Bihar as the soul of India and the birthplace of its philosophical foundation, recalling the state's glorious historical, intellectual, and constitutional legacy.
Addressing a public gathering at the foundation day ceremony of Lalit Narayan Mishra College of Business Management here, Dhankhar said, "Bihar was once the global centre of learning, with Nalanda, Vikramshila, and Odantapuri being not just universities, but civilisations."
Dhankhar highlighted the significance of Bihar, saying it is the land where Buddha attained enlightenment, Mahavira achieved spiritual awakening, and the philosophical foundation of India was born.
He highlighted that ancient knowledge, social justice, and modern aspirations coexist in Bihar, which will fetch global recognition for the country.
Referring to the Champaran Satyagraha launched by Mahatma Gandhi, Dhankhar said it turned the issue of farmers into a national cause and introduced a new grammar of governance based on truth, dignity, and fearless service.
Dhankhar also spoke about the rich history of Nalanda University, which was a residential university with 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers, attracting scholars from across the world.
He lamented the barbaric attacks by foreign invaders on Nalanda, particularly the burning of its library by Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1192.
Discussing the National Education Policy 2020, Dhankhar said it aims to create skilled professionals, contented citizens, employment generators, knowledgeable humans, and build a country that reflects the collective aspirations of the nation.
He emphasised that education in India has always been value-based and character-building, connecting with life values.
Dhankhar also referred to the Emergency, terming June 25 as the darkest chapter of Indian democracy when the Constitution was "murdered". He praised Jayaprakash Narayan for lighting the flame of democracy and said the 'Total Revolution' was a call for national reawakening. UNI RS AKT SSP