V-P Radhakrishnan Lays Foundation For Academic Buildings, Hostels At Gauhati University

Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Monday laid the foundation stone for infrastructure projects worth Rs 110 crore at Gauhati University, including a multidisciplinary academic building, hostels for boys and international students, and development works linked to the university auditorium and library. The projects are aimed at strengthening academic facilities, student support infrastructure and research capabilities at the university.

Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan highlighted the historical significance of Gauhati University, which was established on January 26, 1948, as the first university in the Northeast following a sustained public movement led by prominent leaders, including Bharat Ratna Gopinath Bordoloi. He noted that the university has since developed into a premier institution in the region and currently holds NAAC A+ accreditation. Gauhati University also secured ninth position among state public universities in the NIRF 2025 rankings.

The Vice-President highlighted the university's research initiatives in areas including the Brahmaputra basin, endangered languages, multilingualism, women's studies, environmental sustainability and Indian knowledge systems. Describing the Brahmaputra as an ecological, economic and civilisational force, he stressed the importance of research that addresses challenges faced by communities in the region while also contributing to wider national development.

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Radhakrishnan also highlighted the expansion of India's higher education ecosystem since 2014, referring to the establishment of new IITs, IIMs, IIITs, Central Universities, AIIMS and other institutions. He noted that women's participation in higher education has increased significantly, with enrolment rising from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.24 crore in 2023-24.

The Vice-President urged students and researchers to contribute to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat @2047' by pursuing innovation and research focused on challenges faced by communities. He also released two books during the programme, titled "Bhupen Hazarika: Hundred Years of a Wandering Songs" and the fifth revised and enlarged edition of "Chandrakanta Abhidhan".

Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and other dignitaries attended the programme. The new infrastructure projects are expected to expand Gauhati University's academic and residential facilities while supporting its broader focus on research, higher education and student services in the Northeast.

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