Droupadi Murmu, graced the 45th convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad at Dhanbad, Jharkhand, on (August 01, 2025).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that IIT (ISM) Dhanbad has a glorious legacy of nearly 100 years. It was established to produce trained experts in the field of mining and geology. Over time, it has broadened its academic horizons and has now become a leading centre of higher education and research in diverse fields. This institute has played a vital role in technological development and innovation. She was happy to note that IIT Dhanbad has developed an ecosystem where the objectives of education and innovation are aligned with the needs of the people and aspirations of the citizens.
The President said that IIT-ISM has an important role in the overall development of the country. Apart from preparing excellent engineers and researchers, this institute also has to create compassionate, sensitive and purposeful professionals. The future of our country is taking shape through the commitment of institutions like IIT-ISM, which are promoting cutting-edge research and innovation and guiding bright young minds.
The President said that the country and the world are facing many complex and rapidly changing challenges, from climate change and lack of resources to digital disruption and social inequality. In such a situation, the guidance of an institute like IIT-ISM is even more important. She urged IIT-ISM to play a leading role in finding new and sustainable solutions.
The President said that India's biggest strength is its vast human resources. The increasing access to technical education and the spread of digital skills are leading India towards becoming a technological superpower. Making India's education system more practical, innovation-focused and industry-friendly will give the right direction to the talent of the country's youth and allow them to move forward at the global level.
The President said that there is a need to encourage patent culture along with promoting R&D and start-ups to compete at the global level. To develop holistic thinking among students and find creative solutions to complex problems, the adoption of an interdisciplinary approach in education is also very important.
The President advised students not to limit their knowledge to personal advancement, but to make it a vehicle for public good. She urged them to use their knowledge to build a stronger and more just India – where opportunities to advance are available to all. She told them to use their knowledge to build a Green India – where development is not at the cost of nature, but in harmony with it. She said that whatever they do in the future, it should reflect their empathy, excellence and ethics along with their intelligence. Innovation driven by compassion, not just innovation, makes the world better.
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