New Delhi. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Idappadi K. Palaniswami ji, my colleague, Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Deputy Chief Minister O.K. Panneerselvam, President of IIT Madras, Member of the Board of Governors, Director of this great institution, teachers, distinguished guests and my young friends who are on the verge of a golden future, it is a great pleasure for me to be here today.
I have both the enthusiasm of Small India and New India. There is energy, vibrancy and positivity here. Now that I am granting you a degree, I can see dreams of a future floating in your eyes. I can see the fate of India in your eyes.
I congratulate the parents of the passing students. Imagine their pride and joy. They have struggled, sacrificed to bring you to this point of life. They provided you wings, so that you could fly. There is also a glimpse of pride in the eyes of your teachers. Due to his untiring efforts, he has produced not only good engineers but also good citizens.
I also want to throw light on the role of support staff. These people behind the scenes quietly cook your food, keep your class rooms clean, hostels clean. He also has a role in your success. Before I proceed, I would request my student friends to stand in their places and enthusiastically greet their teachers, parents and support staff.
It is a unique institution. I am told that here the mountains move and the rivers remain stable. We are in the state of Tamil Nadu, which is a unique destination. It is home to one of the oldest languages in the world- Tamil and it is home to one of India’s latest languages - IIT-Madras language. There is something here that you will miss. You will definitely miss Sarang and Shastra. You will miss your wing mates. And there is something you will not miss. In particular, you will now be able to buy top quality footwear without any hesitation.
You are really lucky. You are leaving in such a time by earning education from this excellent college, while the world is seeing India as a land of unique opportunities. I recently returned home after a week-long trip to the United States. During this visit, I met many heads of state, prominent industrialists, innovators, entrepreneurs, investors. One thing was common in our discussions. She was – optimism about the new India and belief in the abilities of the youth of India.
The Indian community has carved out its own unique identity around the world. Especially in the areas of science, technology and innovation. Who is providing strength to these areas? Most of them are your senior colleagues at IITs. In this way, you are strengthening Brand India globally. These days, I am meeting young officers who have passed the UPSC exam. Many IIT graduates will surprise both you and me! In this way you are also contributing to make India a more developed place. And going into the corporate world, you will meet many people who have studied in IITs. Thus, you are making India more prosperous.