Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized the pivotal role of the Mahatma Gandhi International Hindi University (MGIHU) in advancing the ideals of the Father of the Nation. Speaking at the institution's 29th Foundation Day celebrations via an online address, Pradhan stated that the university is dedicatedly carrying forward Gandhi's vision of creating and spreading knowledge through Hindi.
Ministers Laud University's Legacy and Future Vision
Pradhan remarked that Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts and writings have historically guided the nation by championing knowledge in Indian languages. He affirmed that MGIHU is continuing this tradition with unwavering commitment. The minister highlighted that through its specialized academic programs, the university plays a significant part in enriching Hindi as a robust language of knowledge.
In a parallel online message, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, stressed that enriching Indian languages is as crucial as the concepts of swadeshi and self-reliance. He applauded the university for its notable contribution over 29 years to the development of Hindi language and literature, both within India and on the international stage.
Pushing Hindi as a Language for Science and Global Outreach
Addressing contemporary needs, Minister Pradhan noted the university's commendable efforts to develop Hindi as an effective medium for science and technology. He urged MGIHU to extend similar initiatives to other Indian and foreign languages, hoping its work would inspire institutions nationwide. Pradhan underlined the critical function of universities in fortifying India's journey towards becoming a 'Developed India' through knowledge, culture, and innovation.
Recalling the historic first World Hindi Conference held in Nagpur in 1975, Gadkari described the regions of Nagpur and Wardha as especially significant for Hindi. He called for collective endeavors to further elevate the language's global stature.
Celebrating Growth and Gandhian Ideals
The event saw former Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' as the chief guest. He observed that the foundation day celebration symbolized not just an institution's journey, but also the progression of the Hindi language, India's knowledge traditions, and Gandhian philosophy.
Presiding over the ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Professor Kumud Sharma provided a snapshot of the university's growth. She stated that MGIHU was established in 1997, with academic activities commencing in 2002. Starting with a modest cohort of just 36 students, it has expanded into an institution with eight schools and 27 departments, now enrolling over 1,000 students.
Prof. Sharma pointed to the university's central library, academic framework, and digital initiatives as its key strengths. She reiterated that the collective efforts of faculty, students, and administrative staff are indispensable for any university to scale new heights. The VC reaffirmed the university's resolve to build a global knowledge repository deeply rooted in India's traditional knowledge systems.
The event was also attended by Prof. Surendra Dubey, a member of the executive council and deputy director of the Central Hindi Institute in Agra. Registrar Kadar Nawaz Khan was present on the dais alongside the Vice-Chancellor.
