Manashimaya
On June 19, 2024, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi officially opened the new Nalanda University campus in Rajgir, Bihar, marking a significant milestone for Indian education. This occasion represents a critical turning point in restoring the illustrious history of Nalanda University, an establishment renowned for its studies in philosophy, intellectualism, history, and spirituality. PM Modi placed a Bodhi tree sapling at the new campus as a symbolic act honoring his Buddhist background and symbolizing Indian spirituality.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including the Governor of Bihar, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Nitish Kumar, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, MoS for External Affairs, Shri Pabitra Margherita, and the Chancellor of Nalanda University, Prof. Aravind Panagariya. This distinguished gathering underscored the importance of Nalanda University in India’s academic and cultural landscape.
Located close to the ancient ruins of the original Nalanda, the modern Nalanda University was established by an Act of the Parliament of India. This initiative is a crucial element of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and aligns with decisions made at the 2nd East Asia Summit in the Philippines in 2007 and the 4th East Asia Summit in Thailand in 2009. Although the Nalanda University Act was passed in 2010, significant progress in constructing the new campus occurred under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, with construction beginning in 2017.
The Prime Minister inaugurates the new campus of Nalanda University with an international perspective, as 17 countries participate in this endeavour. These countries include Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. Ambassadors from these nations attended the inaugural ceremony, highlighting the global significance of this institution.
The new 455-acre campus of Nalanda University boasts a design inspired by the ancient Nalanda Mahavihara’s monasteries and buildings. Emphasizing sustainability, the campus is a ‘Net Zero Green Campus’, featuring over 100 acres of water bodies known as Kamal Sagar ponds, an on-grid solar plant, and advanced water treatment and recycling facilities. The lush green cover spanning over 100 acres, a 250-capacity Yoga Center, a state-of-the-art auditorium, a library, an archival center, and a fully equipped sports complex further enhance the campus.
The prime minister pledges to support higher education and research during the opening of Nalanda University’s new campus. The institution provides PhD and postgraduate programs in languages and literature, ecology and environmental studies, sustainable development and environment, international relations, peace studies, and Buddhism, philosophy, and comparative religions. The university’s global appeal is evident in the fact that students from over 20 countries, including India, are enrolled in a variety of courses there.
This inauguration of the new Nalanda University campus is a testament to India’s dedication to preserving and promoting its rich educational heritage while fostering international collaboration. As Prime Minister inaugurates the new campus of Nalanda University, the institution is set to become a global hub for academic excellence, intellectual exploration, and cultural exchange, continuing the legacy of the ancient Nalanda University in the modern world.
