RONO HILLS, Apr 14: Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) solemnly observed the birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar today with a thought-provoking programme based on the theme ‘We, the People of India’.
The event, which sought to revisit the enduring relevance of Dr Ambedkar’s ideas in contemporary India—particularly in social justice, constitutional values, and inclusive development—saw active participation from over 60 delegates, including faculty members, research scholars, students, and non-teaching staff, reflecting the collective commitment of the university community to uphold the ideals envisioned by Dr Ambedkar.
Chairing the programme, RGU Vice Chancellor Prof S K Nayak delivered an insightful address highlighting Dr Ambedkar’s multifaceted contributions to India’s socio-economic and political landscape. He emphasized that Dr Ambedkar’s vision extended beyond constitution drafting to the establishment of a just and equitable society especially in terms of financial relationship between the union and the states of India.
Prof Nayak underlined the importance of education as a transformative tool and reiterated that universities must serve as spaces for critical inquiry, social responsibility, and democratic engagement. He further called upon the academic community to internalize Ambedkar’s principles in both thought and action.
Registrar (i/c) Dr David Pertin, in his address, stressed the need for individuals to revisit their personal and professional priorities in alignment with the ideals espoused by Dr Ambedkar. He noted that the true tribute to Dr Ambedkar lies not merely in commemorative events but in consciously striving to practise equality, fraternity, and justice in everyday life. He urged participants to reflect on their roles as responsible citizens in strengthening the nation's democratic fabric.
Prof Jumyir Basar from the Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies (AITS) elaborated on Dr Ambedkar’s significant contributions towards the empowerment of women and marginalized communities. She highlighted how his progressive vision laid the foundation for legal safeguards and social reforms that continue to benefit subaltern groups.
Prof Basar emphasized that the discourse on gender justice and social inclusion must remain central to academic and policy frameworks.
Adding an international perspective to the programme, Dr Arvind Kumar from the University of London joined the event online. In his address, Dr Kumar underscored the importance of embedding the principles of social democracy not only within institutions but also in individual behaviour and societal interactions. He remarked that the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity must be practiced as lived realities, rather than remaining abstract constitutional concepts.
Dr Dharma Rakshit Gautam from the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), New Delhi, spoke on the contemporary relevance of Dr Ambedkar in academic discourse. He emphasized the need for sustained scholarly engagement with ‘Ambedkarite’ thought and proposed establishing a dedicated Dr Ambedkar Chair at RGU. He noted that such an initiative would promote interdisciplinary research and contribute to a deeper understanding of issues related to social justice, education, and policy.
Dr Ravi Ranjan Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work (RGU), delivered a powerful reflection on the life and legacy of Dr Ambedkar. He emphasized that belonging to historically marginalized or “weaker” sections does not imply inherent weakness, rather, it highlights the resilience and strength of individuals who overcome systemic barriers. He called upon students and scholars to draw inspiration from Dr Ambedkar’s journey and to challenge structural inequalities through knowledge, courage, and collective action.
A significant highlight of the programme was Dr Vinod Kumar Yadav from the Department of Commerce administering the Preamble Oath of the Constitution of India. All attendees collectively recited the Preamble, reaffirming their commitment to the core values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which form the bedrock of the Indian Constitution.
The event was efficiently coordinated by Dr Abhishek Kumar Yadav (Dept of Hindi), Dr Jagdeep Rahul (Dept of Electronics and Communication Engineering), and Dr Prachand Narayan Piraji (Dept of English), whose efforts ensured the programme's smooth conduct. The proceedings were anchored by Dr Rajeev Ranjan Prasad from the Dept of Hindi.
The programme concluded with a renewed sense of responsibility among participants to uphold the ideals of Dr Ambedkar in both personal and professional spheres. The observance not only commemorated the legacy of a visionary leader but also reinforced the role of academic institutions like RGU in nurturing constitutional values and promoting an inclusive and equitable society.