Srinagar, August 19, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha delivered a virtual inaugural address at the 22nd Foundation Day of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), emphasizing its role in developing human resources aligned with global changes. The event, held via video conference, celebrated the university’s legacy as a hub of knowledge, innovation, and cultural pride in Jammu & Kashmir, earning recognition nationally and globally.LG Sinha announced the regularization of non-teaching employees at lower and middle levels, previously under a five-year contract system with continuous renewals. “This decision reaffirms our commitment to fairness, talent retention, and professional growth,” he said, noting that it ensures job stability and empowers employees to contribute to SMVDU’s growth.
The Lieutenant Governor praised SMVDU’s evolution into a multi-disciplinary institution aligned with the National Education Policy, highlighting its ranking among India’s top 100 universities and growing enrollment in programs like Design Your Own Degree, B.Tech-Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and MSc Data Science. He urged faculty to foster a skill-driven learning environment to prepare students as innovators, entrepreneurs, architects, and skilled professionals for nation-building.LG Sinha stressed that a developed India and societal prosperity define the value of education. He encouraged SMVDU’s alumni to address societal needs and contribute to the university’s progress, urging students to apply their skills toward national development.The Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to victims of recent natural calamities in Kishtwar and Kathua, assuring that relief efforts are underway with a whole-of-government approach. He confirmed discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, with the Government of India committed to swift rehabilitation of affected families.
The event was attended by Shri Baldev Raj, Member of Legislative Assembly; Shri Ashok Bhan and Ms. Gunjan Rana, Members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Shri Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education; Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, SMVDU; Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; along with senior officials, faculty, staff, and students. LG Sinha congratulated the SMVDU community for establishing it as an institution of excellence.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s address highlighted SMVDU’s contributions to innovation, education, and societal progress, alongside employee welfare measures and regional support initiatives. The university continues to align with global and national goals, preparing the next generation for a developed India.
