Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Nalanda University’s efforts to revive the ancient Indian tradition of Shastrartha, saying the practice can help preserve human creativity and intellectual discourse at a time when the world is being transformed by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
Speaking during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said institutions such as Nalanda University have an important role in ensuring that technological progress remains connected to cultural and intellectual traditions.
Linking Ancient Wisdom With Modern Challenges
Modi said that as societies navigate rapid advances in artificial intelligence, innovation and digital technologies, it is essential to safeguard human creativity while remaining rooted in long-standing traditions of knowledge and dialogue.
He observed that Nalanda University’s knowledge tradition, which flourished centuries ago, is once again contributing to India’s future in a renewed form.
Recalling the inauguration of the university’s new campus two years ago, the Prime Minister said the institution was reviving an intellectual legacy that had once influenced learning across Asia.
Revival Of Shastrartha
Modi highlighted the university’s decision to incorporate Shastrartha into its convocation activities.
He described Shastrartha as more than a platform for expressing opinions, calling it a disciplined process of dialogue, debate and critical reflection.
According to the Prime Minister, the tradition encourages participants to present arguments supported by logic and evidence while fostering the ability to listen to and understand opposing viewpoints with patience.
He said he was pleased that Nalanda University had adopted the practice during its convocation, noting that nearly half the participating students were from overseas.
The Prime Minister also encouraged other universities across the country to consider adopting similar initiatives to strengthen academic dialogue and intellectual engagement.
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International Participation
During the university’s convocation, more than 200 students took part in Shastrartha sessions across 25 thematic areas, including ecology, sustainable development and technology.
University officials said that over half the participants were international students, reflecting Nalanda University’s growing global academic profile.
University Responds
Nalanda University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi welcomed the Prime Minister’s remarks, describing them as both an honour and an encouragement for the institution.
He said the university remained committed to revitalising India’s intellectual traditions through initiatives such as Shastrartha while strengthening Nalanda’s historic legacy as a centre of learning, dialogue and coexistence.
Professor Chaturvedi added that the university would continue working to connect India’s ancient knowledge systems with contemporary global academic discussions.
