Advises graduates to embrace innovation, AI, Swadeshi solutions
Urges LG, CM to make Srinagar India’s cleanest city
Srinagar, Feb 26: Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Thursday urged the Jammu & Kashmir administration to expand tourism in a sustainable manner without harming the region’s fragile ecosystem. He said Srinagar must be transformed into one of the most beautiful and cleanest cities in the country.
Addressing the 21st convocation of University of Kashmir during his maiden visit to the Union Territory after assuming office following the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar in June 2025, the Vice President stressed that development and environmental protection must go hand in hand.
“Tourism must grow without disturbing the ecological balance,” the VP said while referring to the proposed expansion of Srinagar International Airport announced by Narendra Modi.
He urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to work towards making Srinagar the cleanest city in India so it can secure the Swachh Bharat Award.
The Vice President referred to the Chief Minister’s remarks about expanding tourism to border destinations such as Gurez, Keren and Teetwal, even as Gulmarg and Pahalgam remain prime attractions.
Beginning his address with “Bharat Mata is the most powerful and the most merciful”, Radhakrishnan appreciated the university’s expansion to campuses in Anantnag and Baramulla.
Congratulating the students, he credited their parents, teachers and non-teaching staff for their success and said pride and opportunities awaited them.
Highlighting rapid technological shifts, the VP said the world is changing faster than ever and urged students to adapt to innovation, especially Artificial Intelligence. “Change is the only constant,” he said, encouraging Swadeshi solutions and asking youth to shed colonial mindsets. He cited India’s COVID-19 vaccine development and free global supply to nearly 200 countries as a landmark humanitarian achievement.
Referring to the Chenab Rail Bridge in Reasi, Radhakrishnan described bridges as symbols of social harmony that connect not only places but hearts. Recalling his tenure as Jharkhand Governor, he narrated hosting students from Jammu and Kashmir and emphasised that respecting others’ sentiments is fundamental to democracy. “Degrading the sentiments of others is not good; no democrat can do that,” he said.
He advised students to stay away from narcotics and regulate social media use, stressing discipline and time management.
Concluding emotionally, the Vice President said: “Mera Kashmir Nahi, Tumhara Kashmir Nahi — Hamara Kashmir.”
Kashmir University Vice Chancellor Prof Nilofar Khan informed that around 60,000 students — from undergraduate to PhD levels — were receiving degrees, certificates and gold medals.
Security was tightened across Srinagar during VP’s visit, with routes to the university sealed and alternate traffic arrangements made. Classes were suspended for three days, and campus movement was restricted.
