Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday urged students to explore careers beyond conventional paths, encouraging them to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship and scientific research, particularly in medicinal and aromatic plants, where Himachal Pradesh has vast untapped potential.
Addressing the ‘Shimla Ke Medhavi’ programme at Himachal Pradesh University, organised by a leading vernacular daily group, the Governor felicitated over 600 meritorious students from more than 35 schools across Shimla for their academic excellence.
Congratulating the students, Gupta said that while civil services remain a prestigious career option, success is not confined to a single profession. He urged youth to tap opportunities in green entrepreneurship by harnessing the state’s rich natural resources.
Citing global examples, he said New Zealand has created a thriving market around the Manuka plant, South Korea has turned Ginseng into a major economic asset, and Jammu & Kashmir has witnessed socio-economic transformation through lavender cultivation. He said Himachal’s wealth of medicinal herbs, aromatic plants and other high-value crops can generate sustainable livelihoods through scientific cultivation, value addition and innovation.
“If our youth combine innovation with the state’s natural wealth, Himachal Pradesh can emerge not only as India’s horticulture hub but also as the Capital of Green Entrepreneurship,” he said.
The Governor stressed that education should go beyond academic excellence to build character, foster innovation and prepare students for nation-building. He praised the students for their hard work and achievements in academics as well as co-curricular activities, noting that true education extends beyond textbooks.
Expressing concern over drug abuse, Gupta urged students to stay away from narcotics and motivate others to do the same, saying a drug-free Himachal is vital for the state’s progress.
The Governor also launched the ‘Kalam of Himachal’ initiative of the Vidyapeeth Institute.
Earlier, State Bureau Chief of the organising daily, Rajesh Mandhotra, welcomed the Governor and outlined the programme.
Vice-Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University, Prof. Mahavir Singh, said hard work is the key to success and encouraged students to embrace future challenges with confidence. He said Artificial Intelligence has opened new avenues in education and added that the university is establishing five new academic centres, while the upcoming solar panel manufacturing initiative on the campus will strengthen future-ready education and sustainable development.
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