The University of Hyderabad celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India with solemnity and patriotic spirit on campus. The celebrations began with the unfurling of the National Flag by Vice Chancellor, Prof. B. J. Rao accompanied by the University Registrar, Dr. Devesh Nigam followed by the National Anthem, in the presence of faculty members, officers, staff, students, alumni, and their families.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. B.J. Rao reflected on the importance of the occasion and paid tribute to the nation’s founding visionaries. “As we unfurl the Tricolour, we must remember that the ideals of justice, unity, and merit are not distant hopes but responsibilities that must guide our everyday actions towards a Viksit Bharat,” he said, urging the university community to translate the values of constitution into meaningful societal impact that can make a change in the world.
Speaking about the University’s academic standing, the Vice Chancellor noted that the University of Hyderabad continues to strengthen its position as a centre of excellence in teaching and research. “Our global recognition, reflected in the QS Rankings 2026 and the National Institutional Ranking Framework, is a result of the sustained commitment of our faculty, students, and staff,” he remarked. He noted that the University is ranked 801–850 globally in the QS Rankings 2026 and 18th among Indian universities in NIRF 2025, and has secured the top position among multidisciplinary Indian universities in the Nature Index 2025 for research publications.
Referring to research and innovation, Prof. Rao stated that the University is currently executing 186 externally funded research projects with a total outlay of over ₹172 crore, along with a steady rise in quality publications and patent filings. He also mentioned the establishment of INFORM, an interdisciplinary initiative focused on climate resilience and sustainability-oriented policy research.
Highlighting innovation and entrepreneurship, the Vice Chancellor underscored the role of ASPIRE, the University’s incubation ecosystem. “With over 140 startups supported, more than 100 patents, and ₹500 crore in follow-on funding, ASPIRE embodies our commitment to building a self-reliant and innovative India,” he said. He added that the ecosystem has generated over 1,000 jobs and provided hands-on training opportunities to hundreds of students marking a remarkable stand.
Speaking on the Institution of Eminence (IoE) initiative, Prof. Rao outlined major infrastructure developments on campus, including new hostels, academic buildings, and research facilities. He emphasized the importance of sustainable resource generation and collective responsibility to maintain these assets contribute towards the goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat.
On internationalization, the Vice Chancellor spoke about expanding global collaborations and student mobility programmes, noting that “our growing international footprint strengthens both academic excellence and cultural exchange.” He also referred to progress in implementing NEP 2020, recruitment under Mission Mode Recruitment, and the University’s record-breaking placement performance for the academic year 2025–26.
Speaking on contributions towards the nation, he urged the younger generation to align their actions with the country’s development. He highlighted three key focus areas: the ability to achieve high-efficiency quantum computing; the capacity to manufacture high-quality, high-resolution semiconductor chips; and the development of low-cost, high-efficiency AI models for societal benefit. He also emphasized the importance of social equity and healthcare facilities, encouraging students to develop affordable and efficient implementation models in healthcare delivery and social equity mechanisms.
Concluding his address, Prof. Rao reaffirmed the University’s guiding vision of “National Needs, Global Standards,” aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. “The University of Hyderabad stands as a living example of unity in diversity. Let us renew our pledge to serve the nation through education, innovation, and social responsibility,” he said.
The celebrations concluded with several performances by the bright students of the University of Hyderabad Campus School. The students presented a lezim dance filled with energy, pride, and determined rigor, reflecting their devotion to the nation. Another performance was beautifully portrayed, depicting the country’s achievements over the last year in various fields such as women’s sports, hockey, and cricket, along with the most remarkable operation carried out by the Indian Armed Forces in defence of the terrorist attacks as Operation Sindoor.
The performances evoked a strong sense of pride and shared responsibility, as the University community came together to honour the spirit of the Republic.
– By Mahi Sharma, MA Communication (Media Studies)