Bathinda, August 16, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU), Bathinda, celebrated the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour at the University Athletic Ground, with a strong focus on youth empowerment and the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Held under the theme “Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047”, the celebrations also marked 150 years of Vande Mataram and highlighted the role of young people in building a progressive, self-reliant and developed nation.
The ceremony began with Vice Chancellor and chief guest Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Kumar Sharma hoisting the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem. Addressing students and faculty members, Prof. Sharma invoked “Vande Mataram, Jai Hind and Sat Sri Akal” and paid tribute to freedom fighters and martyrs, particularly Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru and Shaheed Sukhdev.
Recalling the legacy of Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh, after whom the university is named, Prof. Sharma emphasised the values of courage, unity, leadership and service.
Calling upon students to contribute actively to the Viksit Bharat@2047 vision, he said innovation, research, entrepreneurship, technology and a progressive outlook would be essential for addressing emerging challenges and driving India’s growth.
Focus on academic excellence and expansion
Prof. Sharma highlighted the university’s academic achievements, noting that women accounted for 78 per cent of the gold medallists at the recent university convocation. He also expressed satisfaction over increased admissions at MRSPTU and its constituent colleges during the current academic session, as well as the growing number of affiliated colleges.
Outlining his plans for the university, he announced the proposed establishment of Centres of Excellence with support from donors and philanthropists. Further faculty recruitment during the current academic session is also planned to strengthen teaching, research and academic programmes.
The celebrations featured a disciplined parade by NCC cadets and university security personnel, representing discipline, unity, responsibility and national pride. The NCC contingent was led by Capt. Vivek, ANO, 2 Punjab R&V Squadron, and Simardeep Kaur, CTO, 20 Punjab Battalion.
Students presented patriotic songs and cultural programmes during the event, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Former Registrar Dr. Gurinder Pal Singh Brar attended the programme as the special guest.
Deans, directors, heads of departments, faculty members, officers, staff, NCC cadets and students were present. Among the senior university officials attending were Dr. Ashish Baldi, Dr. Paramjit Singh, Dr. Amit Bhatia, Dr. Anupam Kumar, Harjinder Singh Sidhu, Dr. Sudanshu and Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sodhi.
Assistant Professor Sunita Kotwal, along with student anchors, conducted the programme.
The celebrations concluded with the university community reaffirming its commitment to the ideals of freedom, democracy and national unity and to empowering young people through education, innovation and research in pursuit of Viksit Bharat@2047.
FOLLOW NOW
