Nalanda University:
The ancient Nalanda University, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. Among other cities, Nalanda stands out as one because it was an ancient center for learning in India and the revival of Nalanda University has been a project close to Modi’s vision for a resurgent India.
The-14th Prime Minister of India is Narendra Modi who has had a significant role within the political landscape of the country. He has initiated numerous moves aimed at transforming socio-economic life in India during his reign. Bihar is one of the areas of interest where Modi has focused with it having a rich history and cultural heritage but also grappling with underdevelopment issues.
Narendra Modi’s Vision for Bihar:
Bihar has remained at the center-stage of developmental agenda set forth by Modi. This is because the state offers substantial opportunities for growth and is strategically placed in the broader context of national development. Modi have focused in Bihar on infrastructural development, education sector, agriculture as well as health care services.
Infrastructure Development:
Significant investments in infrastructure have been made under the leadership of Modi for Bihar. He has fast-tracked construction highways, bridges and railways that links regions within the state and improves overall economic activities. PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana), on the other hand, is an initiative that has led to increased rural road connectivity in the state.
Agricultural Reforms:
Considering that agriculture reforms as the backbone of economy in Bihar ,Government introduced a number of schemes aimed at supporting farmers. As a way of protecting farmers against natural calamities such as floods etc., Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) provides crop insurance cover for them .At the same time soil health card scheme assists farmers maintain optimal soil health status and make decisions regarding appropriate use of fertilizers.
Healthcare Initiatives:
Ayushman Bharat scheme introduced by Modi has worked miracles because it provides health insurance cover to millions of people in Bihar. Establishment AIIMS and new medical colleges at Patna has further availed more healthcare facilities to people who reside within this jurisdiction in addition to those studying there.
Educational Reforms:
Education ranks high on the priority list of the current administration under Mr.Modi. Goals like Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) ink at enhancing the quality of higher education system within Bihar. Notably, there has been special attention given on skill development programmes; this including great supports for ITIs and polytechnics among others.
Nalanda University: Reviving an Ancient Legacy:
Nalanda University, located in the ancient city of Nalanda in Bihar, was one of the world’s first residential universities, flourishing between the 5th and 12th centuries. Its revival has been a part of Narendra Modi’s broader vision of reconnecting with India’s rich heritage and promoting it on a global stage.
Historical Significance:
Nalanda University was an epitome of ancient India’s intellectual prowess. It attracted scholars from various parts of the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and South East Asia. The university’s extensive library, the Dharmaganja, was renowned for its vast collection of texts.
Founded in 427 AD, Nalanda University used to be a global premier university where 10,000 students from Eastern and Central Asia used to come here to study. Unfortunately, this rare academic sanctuary was plundered and razed to the ground in 1190 AD by Turko-Afghan forces under the command of Bakhtiar Khilji, a region famous conqueror.
Revival Efforts:
The revival of Nalanda University began in 2010 and has made great strides under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The University seeks to become a center of excellence focusing on research and education in historical studies, ecological and environmental studies, Buddhist studies, philosophy and comparative religion.
International Collaboration:
Modi’s government has emphasized the importance of international collaboration in reviving Nalanda University. Countries like China, Japan, Singapore, and Australia have contributed to the university’s development. The East Asia Summit (EAS) has played a crucial role in garnering international support for this project.
Modi's Inauguration ceremony:
During the visit to Nalanda University in Bihar, PM Modi examined past and current constructions initiated the new Rajgir campus and inaugurated the new campus with grand ceremony in presence of a chief minister of Bihar and other delegates.
The ancient Nalanda University now comprises of two academic blocks, seating for 1900 students in total. This contemporary blocks designed to accommodate growing numbers of staff and students is marked by a combination of traditional elements with modern architectural design.
Moreover, two auditoriums with 300 seats each have been erected together with hostels for around 550 students. The campus is a Net Zero Green Campus which is a collective undertaking by the countries in the East Asia Summit. In attendance at the inauguration were diplomats from 17 different countries and other dignitaries.
Significance of Nalanda University Towards The World:
The role of Nalanda University in the global arena has been underlined since its renovation whereby scholars have come from all over the world to study here, thus creating multi-disciplinary space where this institution stands prominently. The university’s focus on interdisciplinary research and sustainable development has positioned it as a leading institution in these fields. Its recent inauguration of a new campus only cemented its position as an international center for knowledge
Conclusion:
Narendra Modi’s concerted efforts in Bihar and the revival of Nalanda University highlight his commitment to regional development and cultural resurgence. By focusing on infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and education, Modi’s initiatives have set Bihar on a path of sustainable growth.
The recent inauguration of Nalanda University’s new campus, with its emphasis on global collaboration and academic excellence, stands as a testament to India’s enduring legacy of knowledge and learning. Through these efforts, Modi envisions a Bihar that not only thrives economically but also reclaims its historical significance as a center of intellectual and cultural wealth.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi watches the ruins of ancient Nalanda University in Bihar.
— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024
He will inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University shortly. pic.twitter.com/12QRSUfTkg
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