DD Correspondent
Lucknow, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday called upon the youth to acquire knowledge, question injustice through constitutional means and work collectively to bring about positive change through democratic methods, drawing inspiration from Dr BR Ambedkar’s mantra of “Educate, Agitate and Organise”.
Addressing students at the convocation ceremony of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Rajnath Singh said Dr Ambedkar’s message encouraged people to acquire knowledge, challenge injustice without resorting to violence, and unite to bring about social transformation through constitutional and democratic means.
Emphasising the importance of constitutional methods, the Defence Minister recalled Dr Ambedkar’s final speech to the Constituent Assembly, in which he had stressed that social and economic objectives must be pursued through constitutional means. Rajnath Singh said that when democratic and constitutional avenues are available, violence, anarchy and unconstitutional methods cannot be justified.
He urged universities to focus on shaping young minds with the ideals of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. Highlighting the importance of holistic education, he said true education develops the ability to think and understand, while also strengthening practical and problem-solving skills. Most importantly, education should teach individuals to use their knowledge for the welfare of society and instil values, sensitivity and responsibility.
Recalling Dr Ambedkar’s emphasis on character and humility, Rajnath Singh said knowledge and achievements must always be rooted in moral values and ethical conduct. Citing the vision of Swami Vivekananda, he encouraged the youth to strive not only for personal success but also to contribute to India’s transformation by becoming job creators, problem-solvers and catalysts of positive change.
The Defence Minister stressed that the world is changing rapidly, with emerging technologies and innovations creating new opportunities. He advised students to remain committed to continuous learning and adaptability, stating that those who consistently acquire new skills would be better equipped to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
Calling for collective efforts in nation-building, Shri Rajnath Singh said individual contributions can drive progress, but a united resolve can accelerate development significantly. He urged students to work as part of “Team India” towards the shared vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Rajnath Singh also emphasised the importance of determination, resilience and hard work in overcoming challenges. He said success is often achieved not under favourable circumstances but in the face of adversity. Referring to the Government’s initiatives over the past decade, he said efforts have been made to transform challenges into opportunities by promoting Aatmanirbhar Bharat, semiconductor manufacturing, digital public infrastructure, start-ups and the manufacturing sector.
Highlighting India’s growing achievements in the space sector, the Defence Minister said the country has progressed from undertaking space missions with limited resources to pursuing advanced programmes, including human spaceflight and the development of an Indian space station. He also noted the increasing role of the private sector, with Indian space start-ups making significant advances in launch vehicles and satellite technology.
On the progress made in India’s education, research and innovation ecosystem over the past 12 years, Rajnath Singh said expenditure on research and development has doubled, while the National Education Policy was introduced after 34 years. He highlighted the achievements of Indian youth in international Olympiads, start-ups, unicorns and advanced technology development.
He said India is increasingly emerging as a global innovation powerhouse, with the country improving its position in the Global Innovation Index and becoming the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem. He assured that the Government would continue to create an enabling ecosystem where young people can explore, innovate, experiment and develop solutions for a better society.
The Defence Minister also underlined the importance of preserving and taking pride in India’s culture, civilisation and heritage. He said the journey towards a Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat cannot be measured by economic growth alone. While economic strength makes a nation prosperous, he said, cultural self-confidence makes it great.
“India has emerged not merely as a major economy, but as a nation that believes in its own civilisation, culture and potential. Today, when we speak, the world listens. We do not just follow rules; we set them. Today’s generation takes pride in the nation’s identity, has faith in its civilisation and trusts in the future. This is the most significant transformation that has taken place in ‘New India’. The spirit of ‘Believe in India’ lies behind the success of ‘Make in India’,” Rajnath Singh said.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Vice-Chancellor of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal, along with faculty members and staff of the university, were present on the occasion.