HPU students have the potential to soar, says Sukhu at NSUI event
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said any goal in life could be achieved through unwavering determination and hard work. He was addressing students at the event “Vyavastha Parivartan Ek Sankalp – Aagaz Naye Yug Ka”, organised by the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) last evening.
Speaking to a packed auditorium, the CM praised the self-confidence and potential of HPU students, encouraging them to remain committed to their dreams and pursue them with dedication. “Students here are full of promise. With focus and perseverance, you can achieve great heights,” he said.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Sukhu said his rise to the position of CM was not the result of privilege, but of years of struggle and the trust placed in him by people. “Unlike others who have enjoyed frequent electoral success over the last 30 years, I have worked my way up. Eleven of our current MLAs have emerged from the NSUI. I lead today not through entitlement, but through the faith of the people,” he said.
Recalling his early days, Sukhu shared an emotional connection with the university. “It’s been 40 years since I got admission here. Every time I return to this auditorium, I feel a deep sense of belonging. I come from a simple family—none of my family members were in politics. We were four siblings and my mother often worried about my future,” he reminisced.
He acknowledged the inevitability of setbacks but urged students never to lose heart. “Challenges are part of life. Success belongs to those who persevere,” he said, adding that even BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda once studied at HPU, and the university’s alumni have made their mark across the country.
Stressing the importance of diversity in education, Sukhu said regional universities often lack exposure, whereas HPU offers a unique environment where students from across Himachal interact, learn about different cultures and grow holistically. “This diversity plays a critical role in shaping well-rounded individuals,” he said.
The CM noted that while some of the government’s decisions might seem difficult today, they were taken with the long-term interest of future generations in mind. He emphasised that youth support was essential in driving meaningful change.
The event also featured vibrant cultural performances by students, including a special musical performance by Indian Idol fame Neha Dixit, which added to the celebratory spirit of the evening.
Present at the function were Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLAs Sanjay Awasthi, Harish Janartha, and Vivek Sharma, Mayor of MC Shimla Surinder Chauhan, Advocate General Anup Ratan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, State Youth Congress President Chhatter Singh and senior NSUI officials among others.
