SHIMLA -3 November, 2026-Governor Kavinder Gupta today called upon young graduates to utilise their knowledge, skills and education to bring positive social change and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

Addressing the 12th Convocation of Career Point University (CPU), Hamirpur, he emphasised the importance of connecting academic learning with societal needs and national development. A total of 648 students were awarded degrees at the ceremony, including 43 research scholars who received Ph.D. degrees, while 43 meritorious students, comprising 29 girls and 14 boys, were honoured with gold medals.

The Governor congratulated the graduates, medal winners, parents and faculty members. He said that the university had made a significant contribution towards expanding higher education in rural areas. He appreciated its initiatives in research, innovation and community development, including the adoption of 100 villages, the ‘Mera Gaon Mera Teerth’ campaign and efforts to promote rural livelihoods, health awareness and local products.

Referring to the university’s ‘Vigyan Darshan’ initiative, he emphasised the need to connect students with scientific thinking, research and innovation.

Addressing the graduates, the Governor said, ‘Success should not be measured merely by a good salary, position or recognition. Its real value lies in the positive difference knowledge and actions make in the lives of others and in the progress of the nation.’ He urged students to remain connected with their villages, culture and roots while using their education to address societal challenges.

Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat, he said that universities in Himachal Pradesh should promote innovation and research in areas such as agriculture, tourism, environmental conservation, technology and entrepreneurship, linking academic knowledge with local needs and public welfare. He also appreciated the university’s implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 and its initiatives in yoga, traditional medicine, Indian values and the promotion of millets.

On the occasion, the Governor conferred honorary degrees upon Chairman Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Scheduled Castes and former Industries Minister, Kuldeep Dhiman, Chairman of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi Padma Shri Dr. D.S. Rana and renowned Himachali folk singer Karnail Rana.

The Governor also released the university’s annual report, unveiled a book on millets and felicitated winners of the Millet Festival.

Vice-Chancellor Dr. Sanjeev Sharma presented the university’s progress report, while Pro-Chancellor Padma Shri Dr. P.L. Gautam welcomed the Governor. Kuldeep Dhiman and Dr. D.S. Rana also congratulated the graduates and shared their views.

Registrar Gulshan Sandhu proposed the vote of thanks.

Vice-Chancellor of Sardar Patel University, Mandi Dr. Lalit Kumar Awasthi, members of the Governing Body, Board of Management, Academic Council and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.