Bareilly: A grand Tiranga Yatra was organised at Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, on the eve of the 80th Independence Day under the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign 2026. The event brought together the themes of patriotism, environmental conservation, youth empowerment and the vision of a developed India.
The programme was attended by Uttar Pradesh Minister of State for Environment Dr Arun Kumar as the chief guest. The university welcomed him by presenting a sapling, following which he inaugurated the newly constructed Vivekanand Marg on the campus.
Addressing students, Dr Kumar highlighted the vital role of trees in maintaining ecological balance. He explained that trees absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and release oxygen, while increasing emissions from industrial activity, vehicles, fossil fuel consumption and power generation have contributed to rising carbon dioxide levels.
He said extensive plantation and conservation of existing trees were essential to addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The university’s green campus, he added, sends a strong message that nature is a mother and protecting it is a collective responsibility.
Dr Kumar urged students to plant trees under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative and stressed that planting a sapling should be followed by its regular care and protection. He encouraged students to make plantation a habit on birthdays, special occasions and other important milestones in their lives.
Call to Follow Swami Vivekananda’s Ideals
Dr Kumar also urged students to draw inspiration from the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. He said Vivekananda’s message emphasised self-confidence, character building, discipline and dedication towards one’s goals.
Quoting the renowned message, “Arise, awake and do not stop until the goal is reached,” he encouraged students to set clear goals, use their time effectively and work consistently towards achieving their ambitions.
Praise for University’s Development
Dr Kumar praised the development of Rohilkhand University and noted the significant increase in its student strength. While around 1,700 students were previously studying on the campus, the number has now crossed 6,000.
He credited the university’s progress to the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. K.P. Singh and appreciated the establishment of various directorates and centres, effective use of technology, introduction of new courses and development of new faculties.
He also appreciated the university’s extensive green campus, saying it demonstrated that development and environmental protection were not contradictory but complementary. He stressed that environmental conservation must remain a priority alongside development.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. K.P. Singh thanked Dr Arun Kumar for taking time from his busy schedule to visit the university and guide the students. He said Dr Kumar had consistently supported and guided the university and brought new perspectives whenever he visited the campus.
Prof. Singh urged students to make the principles of Swami Vivekananda an integral part of their lives. He said Vivekananda’s life offered young people lessons in confidence, hard work, discipline, character building and service to the nation.
He emphasised that patriotism should not remain confined to slogans but should be reflected in behaviour, professional conduct and social responsibility. Environmental protection, cleanliness, education, discipline and sensitivity towards society, he said, were also important dimensions of national service.
Students Take Out Tiranga Yatra
The grand Tiranga Yatra was subsequently flagged off from the university’s main administrative building and entrance. A large number of students, teachers and employees participated in the procession carrying the national flag.
The campus reverberated with patriotic slogans including “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” “Vande Mataram,” “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” and “Jai Hind.” The procession proceeded from the Administrative Building towards Vivekanand Marg, with students displaying tremendous enthusiasm and patriotic spirit.
The programme was conducted by Cultural Coordinator Dr Jyoti Pandey.
Prof. J.N. Maurya, Dr Jyoti Pandey, Dr Atul Katiyar, Prof. Naveen, Dr Ajay, Dr Yatendra, Dr Kaushal, Dr Pawan, Robin, Vishesh, Tapan Verma, Sudhakar, Sudhansh Sharma and several other teachers, officers, employees and students attended the event.
The programme conveyed a collective message of patriotism, environmental protection, youth empowerment, the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and the commitment towards building a developed India.
Report from Bareilly by Akhilesh Chandra Saxena
