The Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Sunday praised the growing academic strength of Tripura University, describing it as a dynamic hub of teaching, research, and innovation in the region.

The Vice President arrived in Agartala on Saturday to attend the university’s 14th Convocation Ceremony, where he addressed graduating students, faculty members, and distinguished guests.

Speaking at the event, Radhakrishnan said the convocation reflected the hard work, dedication, and aspirations of the students. He noted the sense of pride and achievement visible among the graduates and their families, calling the occasion a celebration of perseverance and academic excellence.

“This is my first visit to Tripura after assuming office as the Vice President of India,” he said. “Over the past few days, I have travelled through the beautiful northeastern states of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Tripura. I feel honoured to be here in a land known for its rich history and cultural heritage.”

Reflecting on the uniqueness of the state, the Vice President mentioned his conversation with the Governor of Tripura, Indrasena Reddy Nallu, who described the state as small in size but immensely rich in culture and tradition. According to Radhakrishnan, Tripura represents a remarkable blend of royal legacy, spiritual heritage, and vibrant indigenous traditions.

Earlier in the day, he visited the revered Tripura Sundari Temple, one of the most significant religious sites in the region. He appreciated the developmental initiatives undertaken there through coordinated efforts between the state and central governments, highlighting how such projects preserve heritage while improving facilities for visitors and devotees.

The Vice President expressed particular satisfaction with the progress of Tripura University, noting that it has steadily strengthened its academic reputation. He emphasized that higher education should not merely focus on awarding degrees but must foster continuous learning, research, and innovation that contribute to national development.

He commended the university for its growing record of high-quality research publications, an increasing number of externally funded research projects, and its emerging culture of intellectual property creation. Such achievements, he said, demonstrate the institution’s commitment to advancing knowledge and nurturing creative thinking among students and scholars.

Radhakrishnan also highlighted the university’s participation in several national research platforms, describing it as a sign of its expanding presence in India’s academic ecosystem. He noted with pride that many faculty members are gaining global recognition for their research contributions and that the university’s alumni are making significant impacts across various professional fields.

“I am confident that this institution will continue to produce talented individuals who will make meaningful contributions to society,” he said, adding that many more inspiring success stories are likely to emerge from its classrooms and laboratories in the years ahead.

The Vice President also spoke about the transformation taking place in the northeastern region over the past decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He pointed out that improved connectivity and infrastructure have significantly enhanced the region’s accessibility and economic prospects.

“Not long ago, travelling from Agartala to cities such as Chennai was a challenging journey,” he said. “Today, thanks to improved transport networks and infrastructure development, such trips can be completed within a single day. This transformation reflects the growing integration of the Northeast with the rest of the country.”

Concluding his address, Radhakrishnan encouraged the graduates to pursue knowledge with curiosity and dedication, reminding them that education is not just about personal success but also about contributing to the progress of society and the nation.