The Goal of Education Is Not Merely Acquiring a Degree, But Character Building: HIRD Director Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan
Pundri, March 19, 2026: The Arya Samaj is not merely an organization; it is an ideology that serves as the clarion call of nationalism. Rishi Dayanand's Arya Samaj played a leading role in the struggle for liberation from British rule while simultaneously paving the way to rid society of social evils. These remarks were made by Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Institute of Rural Development (HIRD). He was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at an event organized at DAV College, Pundri, to mark the Arya Samaj Foundation Day.
The program commenced with a ‘Yajna’ (sacrificial fire ritual). Principal Dr. Rajesh Turan welcomed the Chief Guest by presenting him with a floral bouquet.
In his inspiring address, Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan told the students that the true objective of education is not merely to acquire a degree, but to evolve into responsible and cultured citizens. He encouraged the youth to embrace truth, discipline, and hard work in their lives and to contribute actively to social service.
During the event, the Chief Guest also administered a pledge to the audience to promote the usage of the Hindi language. He said that everyone should sign their names in Hindi and ensure that nameplates in their institutions and offices are also displayed in Hindi. This, he noted, would not only enhance respect for our mother tongue but also strengthen our cultural identity.
Recalling the contributions of Mahatma Hansraj and Swami Shraddhanand, the HIRD Director Dr. Chauhan remarked that they performed unparalleled work in the fields of education and social reform. Founded upon those very ideals, the DAV institutions present a beautiful synthesis of Vedic education and modern knowledge.
Extending his heartfelt wishes to everyone on the Hindu New Year, Dr. Chauhan expressed the hope that this New Year would bring fresh energy, positivity, and progress into the lives of all.
Principal Dr. Rajesh Turan proposed the vote of thanks and said that such inspiring programs play a pivotal role in the holistic development of students. He encouraged all students to embrace and uphold the ideals of the Arya Samaj.
Krishna Arya (Director, Arya Vidyapeeth Bastali), Anil Arya (President, Arya Samaj Pundri), Sandeep Arya (President, Arya Samaj Barsana), Naresh (Director, Arya Vidyapeeth Munnaheri), Jagdish Kawatra, Sarjan Singh, Yogesh Kumar, Deepak Arya, and Saurabh Arora, along with other dignitaries, were present on the occasion.

Girish Saini 

