New Delhi, May 17, 2025 — The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, delivered a powerful address at the Annual Convocation of Jaipuria Institute of Management, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. In his keynote address, the Vice-President highlighted the importance of economic nationalism, national security, and the steadfast courage of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in response to the Pahalgam terror attack and the launch of Operation Sindoor.
“Time to Deeply Think About Economic Nationalism”
In a clear and compelling message, Shri Dhankhar questioned the economic relationships India maintains with adversarial nations.
“Can we continue to strengthen nations that oppose our interests?” he asked.
He urged Indian citizens and industries alike to prioritize “nation-first” thinking, advocating for reduced dependence on imports and travel that may benefit nations hostile to India.
“Every citizen must consider economic participation through the lens of nationalism. Nation first—this mindset must be inculcated from day one,” he stressed.
Security Through Commerce and Industry
Highlighting the role of trade, commerce, and industry in national security, Shri Dhankhar emphasized the importance of economic strength as a pillar of defense. He called on business leaders and entrepreneurs to become active contributors to India’s resilience, stating:
“Each individual has the power to contribute to national security, with business and commerce playing a crucial and transformative role.”
Salute to Armed Forces and Operation Sindoor
Addressing the youth and dignitaries present, the Vice-President paid heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in Operation Sindoor, a decisive counter-terrorism response to the Pahalgam attack.
“It was a remarkable retaliation, befitting our ethos of peace and tranquility… The world has seen and acknowledged,” Dhankhar said.
He detailed how Indian forces struck deep inside Pakistani territory, targeting Jaish-e-Mohammed’s headquarters in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba’s base in Muridke, noting that the world has accepted India’s actions without demanding proof.
“He asserted, “India has established a new standard in the fight against terrorism.”
He drew a parallel between India’s precision strike and the U.S. operation in Abbottabad on May 2, 2011, which eliminated Osama bin Laden, highlighting India’s growing global stature, strategic maturity, and decisive action against terrorism.
Guarding Against Anti-National Narratives and Commercialized Education
Shri Dhankhar voiced strong concern over anti-national narratives, particularly those being amplified by foreign influences. He warned of the need for strict scrutiny of foreign universities entering India, calling for careful filtration of ideologies that may undermine national unity.
Turning to the state of Indian education, the Vice-President criticized the commercialization of education and healthcare, declaring that these sectors must remain service-oriented, not profit-driven:
“Education and health are not commodities. They are duties we owe to society.”
He appealed to the corporate sector to invest in research, stating that CSR funds should prioritize academic innovation and discovery:
“Investment in research is fundamental. We cannot rely on others to develop technology for us.”
Civilizational Pride and Global Message
Echoing India’s ancient legacy, Shri Dhankhar celebrated the nation’s 5,000-year-old civilizational ethos, stating that India is uniquely positioned to bridge the divide between the East and the West.
He concluded with a strong call to action:
“The time when we could rely on others for technology is over. Delaying our own innovation puts us at a disadvantage from the very start.”
Dignitaries Present
The event was graced by several esteemed guests including Shri Sharad Jaipuria, Chairman of the Board of Governors, Smt. Anjali Jaipuria, and Shri Shreevats Jaipuria, Vice Chairman of Jaipuria Institute of Management.
Shri Dhankhar’s address echoed strong patriotic spirit, emphasizing national unity, economic self-reliance, and technological advancement, while honoring the bravery of India’s armed forces and celebrating the nation’s profound civilizational heritage.
