Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday asserted that the current government “cannot afford to be prisoners of the past” and will continue to drive India’s development with the same momentum witnessed over the last 11 years. Speaking at the convocation ceremony of Babu Banarasi Das University (BBDU), the Chief Minister urged the youth to embrace emerging technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation, while staying rooted in values and gratitude.
Addressing graduating students, CM Yogi congratulated them and highlighted how initiatives like Digital India, reforms in education, NEP-2020, skill development programs, and massive infrastructure expansion have propelled India into a new era of growth. “This is not just a convocation ceremony but a reflection of India’s transforming generation,” he said.
‘India Progressed When We Led, Not When We Followed’
Drawing a contrast between India’s ancient knowledge systems and its recent tendency to imitate the world, the Chief Minister said, “We were leaders when the world followed our knowledge. When we began following others, our strength diminished.” He remembered former UP Chief Minister and BBD University’s founder, Babu Banarasi Das, recognising his contribution to education and nation-building.
Yogi emphasized that gratitude must remain central to one’s personal and professional journey. “Whatever development we are achieving in Uttar Pradesh today has roots in the vision of pioneers like Babu Banarasi Das,” he added.
PM Modi Transformed Despair into Hope
Highlighting India’s rapid progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yogi Adityanath said the last decade has witnessed “a long leap forward” in every field—from sports and digital finance to social welfare and youth empowerment. He lauded initiatives such as Khelo India, Fit India Movement, and DBT, stating that “direct benefit transfers ended leakages and empowered 50 crore citizens.”
He reminded students that Modi converted “scale into skill,” enabling India’s youth to become globally competitive.
‘Walk 10 Steps Ahead of the World’
Urging students to become future-ready, Yogi said that institutions must focus on emerging technologies. “The world is adopting new technologies rapidly. If we move 10 steps ahead, the world will follow us,” he said, adding that India’s development model is already drawing global attention.
He encouraged BBD University to expand certificate and diploma courses in AI, IoT, robotics, drone technology, and data sciences. “Technology does not take away jobs—it creates new opportunities,” he noted.
Law, Good Governance and Investment Boom in UP
Reflecting on his government’s governance model, the Chief Minister said Uttar Pradesh moved from being counted among India’s bottom five states to becoming a top performer in central schemes. “No scheme succeeds without public participation,” he added.
Yogi reiterated his administration’s commitment to law and order, saying, “Law may seem harsh, but like medicine, it delivers positive results.” He said improved security has triggered an unprecedented surge in investment, with UP attracting proposals worth over ₹45 lakh crore in eight years.
UP’s Technological and Defence Capability Growing
CM Yogi spoke proudly of Uttar Pradesh’s role in national defence, highlighting that the BrahMos missile unit coming up in Lucknow will soon operate at full capacity. “The world saw India’s strength during Operation Sindhur. During the operation, drones manufactured by UP’s youth stunned Pakistan,” he said.
He noted that UP is establishing itself as a hub for AI, data centres, robotics and drone technology, urging educational institutions to align with these ambitions.
‘Combine Technology With Values’
While championing digital progress, the Chief Minister also stressed on ethics, civic sense and cultural grounding. He referred to issues such as manual sewer cleaning and single-use plastic, urging youth to help build a responsible society. “Institutions must connect students not only with technology but also with values,” he said.
Convocation Highlights
During the ceremony, CM Yogi awarded medals and degrees to meritorious students including Muskan Sahu, Peshwani Sharma, Sumi Gaur, Jivida Shukla, Smarika Saxena, Insha Imran, Madhulika, Rishita Asthana, Naina Singh, Vibhav Dubey and others. Several scholars received doctoral degrees, among them Mayank Jaipuria, Amrita Yadav, Manju Bhardwaj, Shweta Singh, Usha Arunima and Anukriti Mishra.
Cabinet Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, Chancellor Alka Das, Pro-Chancellor Viraj Sagar Das, Vice Chairperson Sonakshi Das Gupta, Devanshi Das Gupta, Vice Chancellor Prof. S.K. Srivastava and other dignitaries were present.
‘With Patience and Balance, Success Will Follow’
CM Yogi concluded by advising students to remain steadfast in their goals. “If you move ahead with patience, balance and determination, success will follow. The vision of a developed India will be realised through a developed Uttar Pradesh—and your contribution will be crucial.”
