JAMMU, Jul 14: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and MoS PMO, Dr. Jitendra Singh, today delivered a compelling address during the Orientation Programme at IIM Jammu, urging students to seize historic opportunities and actively contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Earlier, Dr. Singh inaugurated a newly constructed hostel complex on the campus, comprising four aesthetically designed blocks that offer 688 single-room accommodations. Highlighting recent government support, he shared that the Union Cabinet last week approved authorisation for the Director to float a ₹200 crore tender, further strengthening the institute’s infrastructure.
In his keynote, Dr. Singh told students, “You are born at a time when India is at the cusp of historic change. Your birth in this era is not your achievement, but how you use this opportunity will define your legacy.” Describing youth as the true architects of a developed India by 2047, he emphasized their responsibility to shape the nation’s centenary of independence.
The Minister praised IIM Jammu’s rapid growth and student-centric development, noting that modern, thoughtfully designed facilities directly enhance learning and innovation. “World-class infrastructure is essential to nurture talent and creativity,” he observed.
Reflecting on national reforms, Dr. Singh highlighted the transformative National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which offers students interdisciplinary flexibility. “Today, you can blend literature with science, or management with medicine. That is true empowerment,” he remarked.
He also detailed structural reforms, including the relaxation of General Financial Rules (GFRs) and enabling Directors to approve global tenders up to ₹200 crore, which have improved institutional autonomy and research capability. “These measures reflect the government’s deep trust in academic and scientific leadership,” he noted.
Pointing to India’s remarkable rise in innovation, Dr. Singh shared that the country now boasts over 1.75 lakh startups, generating more than 17.5 lakh jobs — far surpassing many government recruitment drives. He urged students to view themselves as job creators rather than job seekers, leveraging the nation’s expanding startup ecosystem.
Having been associated with IIM Jammu since its inception, Dr. Singh commended its standout performance among newer IIMs. He encouraged the institute to host in-house B2B startup meets, making use of its proximity to IIT Jammu, AIIMS Jammu, IIIM, and the Institute of Mass Communication — creating a unique cluster for interdisciplinary collaboration and early industry exposure.
Dr. Singh further spoke about the democratization of aspiration, observing that students from remote regions are excelling in national institutions and services. “You will be the ones to celebrate India’s 100 years of independence in 2047. Take the responsibility of building Viksit Bharat not as a burden, but as a gift from destiny,” he said.
At the same time, he reminded students to balance autonomy with accountability. “Every freedom carries an inherent obligation. The purpose of relaxing controls is not for comfort, but for greater creativity and responsibility,” he added.
The event was attended by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu; Dr. Shakti Gupta, Director, AIIMS Jammu; Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu; Shri Amitava Chatterjee, MD & CEO, J&K Bank; Prof. Upadhyay, Dean (Academics); Dr. Sarbjeet Singh, faculty, and a large gathering of students.
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