Central University of Punjab Inspires Patriotic Fervour Among Youth Through ‘Rashtra Pratham’ Campaign

Bathinda, May 16, 2025: The faculty, staff, and students of the Central University of Punjab, under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, organized a spirited Tiranga Rally as part of the ‘Rashtra Pratham’ (Nation First) campaign to honour the bravery and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces safeguarding the nation’s honour and sovereignty. School students from Village Ghudda, along with local residents, enthusiastically participated in the rally, chanting patriotic slogans like Vande Mataram and Bharat Mata Ki Jai.

As part of this campaign, the university conducted a range of patriotic activities including an invited lecture, street play (Nukkad Natak), Desh Ke Naam Sandesh, essay writing, and poetry competitions. These initiatives aimed to instil a spirit of national pride, unity, and civic responsibility among the youth.

A key highlight of the programme was an invited lecture on India’s defence preparedness and evolving security doctrine delivered by Colonel (Retd.) Jaibans Singh, a noted defence expert and strategic affairs commentator. In his address, Col. Singh provided an insightful analysis of India’s evolving defence strategy, emphasizing the transition from a reactive to a proactive security doctrine. He underscored the importance of technological advancements, intelligence-driven operations, and rapid-response capabilities in safeguarding national security in the modern era.

Colonel Singh mentioned India’s military achievements after independence, highlighting the bravery of Indian soldiers in the wars of 1947, 1962, 1965, 1971, and 1999, as well as India’s emergence as a nuclear power in 1998. He commended the Government of India’s recent defence reforms under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the procurement of advanced weapons systems, promotion of indigenous defence production through the ‘Make in India’ initiative, and increased autonomy for the armed forces.

Colonel Singh also shed light on Operation Sindoor—a decisive counter-terrorism operation—describing it as a demonstration of India’s military strength and firm stance against cross-border terrorism. He called upon citizens to actively support the Armed Forces through unity, responsible citizenship, and national solidarity.

In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tiwari praised the bold and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi in redefining India’s national security framework. He described Operation Sindoor as a doctrinal shift rooted in dharma, national honour, and immediate deterrence. Prof. Tiwari urged the youth to embrace the spirit of Rashtra Pratham – Nation Above All, by placing the interests of the nation above personal gain, divisions, or differences.

Adding vibrancy to the campaign, students from the Department of Performing and Fine Arts presented a compelling Nukkad Natak titled Desh Ke Naam that celebrated India’s rich cultural traditions and the spirit of resilience. The Desh Ke Naam Sandesh segment featured heartfelt tributes from students and staff, expressing solidarity with the Armed Forces and reaffirming their dedication to the nation.

While welcoming the participants, Prof. Vipan Pal Singh highlighted that India’s response to conflict is guided by dharma, not aggression. He said the Operation Sindoor is not just a military manoeuvre—it is a civilisational response to the desecration of peace and a reaffirmation of India’s strength. Dr. Vijay Sharma, Registrar, delivered the vote of thanks towards the end of programme.