Jaipur, June 9 (IANS) Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde said on Tuesday that ancient India was home to the world’s highest number of universities, with 19 centres of higher learning that attracted students from across the globe.

Interacting with students of Indian Institute of Information Technology Dharwad in Karnataka at Lok Bhawan under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative, the Governor added that India has excelled in culture, knowledge and traditions since ancient times and stressed the need to restore the nation to that position of excellence.

Governor Bagde remarked that India’s geographical boundaries in ancient times were far more expansive than they are today.

Referring to regions that now fall within Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, the Governor said these areas were once part of India’s vast civilisational landscape.

He also highlighted the intellectual achievements of ancient India and added that students from distant countries travelled here in pursuit of education.

Speaking about the National Education Policy, Governor Bagde said it seeks to instill pride in India’s rich heritage while equipping young people to emerge as leaders across sectors.

He stressed that students pursuing technology and professional education should also be familiar with the country’s historical and cultural legacy.

The Governor also shared details about Rajasthan’s tribal freedom fighter Kalibai and her contribution to India’s freedom movement.

He said the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ is centred on nurturing talent and fostering national unity among the youth.

During the interaction, the Governor acquainted the students with Rajasthan’s geography, culture and historical heritage.

He spoke about the diversion of Narmada waters from the Sardar Sarovar Dam to Rajasthan, the significance of Chittorgarh Fort and the history of the Gang Canal, regarded as one of the world’s largest lined canals.

Secretary to Rajasthan Governor, Prithvi Raj, was also present on the occasion.

–IANS

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