India must shed colonial mindset to emerge as global leader: Vice-President Radhakrishnan

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan on Thursday urged students to embrace swadeshi innovation and self-belief, asserting that India must “throw out its colonial mindset” to emerge as a global leader.

Addressing the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir in Srinagar, Radhakrishnan said students are graduating at a time of unprecedented global transformation.

“The changes that have come in the last five years cannot be compared to the previous 25 years. The world you are stepping into in 2026 is very different from the world even five or ten years ago when you joined this university. But every challenge also presents an opportunity,” he said.

Highlighting national initiatives such as Digital India, Startup India and Make in India, the Vice-President said the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has become more vibrant and supportive than ever before. He called on students to focus on swadeshi innovations rooted in Indian knowledge, resources and needs.

“True Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) comes when our innovations reflect our nation’s identity and serve our people. We need not feel worried or inferior. We have to throw out our colonial mindset first,” he said.

Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, Radhakrishnan recalled how Prime Minister Narendra Modi had urged Indian scientists to develop a vaccine. “How many of us believed it was possible? But we produced effective vaccines that served not only our country but humanity,” he said.

The Vice-President also cautioned students against drug abuse. “There is no religion in this world that encourages narcotic drugs. Please keep away from drugs,” he said.

He advised students to be mindful of their social media usage and avoid addiction. “You should not become addicted to anything, including social media. Spending time on it till two or three in the morning will not help you succeed in life. Everything must have its limits,” he added.

In an appeal for unity, Radhakrishnan shared a message with the students: “Three lines I want to tell you —Mera Kashmir nahi, tumhara Kashmir nahi, hamara Kashmir.”

The Vice-President arrived in the Valley on Wednesday for his maiden two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 25 and 26.

V-P visits Dal Lake

Earlier on Thursday, the Vice-President visited Dal Lake, where he took a morning cruise.

“I experienced the timeless charm, pristine waters, and breathtaking natural beauty of Srinagar during a morning cruise on Dal Lake today,” he posted on X.

He said he was deeply impressed by the transformative changes taking place in Jammu and Kashmir, including improved infrastructure and enhanced connectivity. The Vice-President appreciated the administration’s efforts in promoting eco-tourism, preserving natural heritage, and creating new livelihood opportunities for local communities.

“These initiatives have not only boosted tourism but have also ushered in a new era of peace, progress, and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.