Bengaluru: India has moved from being an “import denial nation” to a self-reliant country in defence, with expanding opportunities in the sector, said Binay Kumar Das, director general (Electronics and Communication System), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).Speaking at the fifth convocation of Dr Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University, he said with more than 500 negative import lists, India is strengthening domestic defence manufacturing. He urged students to contribute to national development through innovation and science.Karnataka governor Thawar Chand Gehlot called on students to recognise their responsibilities towards society and the nation. “Today, when the world is facing climate change, social inequality, and economic challenges, your role becomes even more important. You must be responsible citizens who protect the environment, are sensitive to weaker sections of society, and contribute to inclusive development,” he said.Higher education minister MC Sudhakar, who is also the pro-chancellor of state universities, was absent from the event. His office told TOI he was campaigning for elections.The university awarded 37,393 degrees, including 23 PhDs, 7,484 postgraduate and 29,880 undergraduate degrees. As many as 64 gold medals were presented. Cricketer Venkatesh Prasad and music director Arjun Janya were among five individuals conferred with honorary doctorates at the ceremony.
