Rajgir, August 10: Professor Arvind Panagariya, Chancellor of Nalanda University and Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, inaugurated the ‘Nalanda Research Villa’ on Monday within the university campus. This collaborative research facility aims to connect all six research centers of the university in one location, fostering research, policy studies, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Following the inauguration, a special lecture and dialogue session took place at the Vishwamitra Hall of the university. Vice-Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi provided insights into the university’s academic and institutional activities, future plans, and key initiatives. He also highlighted efforts to strengthen the institutional database and develop new collaborative opportunities across various fields.
In his address, Professor Panagariya emphasized the need for better synergy between teaching and research. He stated that teaching and research are deeply interconnected and should progress together. Encouraging students, he urged them to choose subjects they are passionate about, work diligently, and strive for excellence through expertise.
Panagariya praised the rapid progress made by Nalanda University in a short time. He commended Vice-Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi for the increasing number of faculty and students. He highlighted the university’s ‘Participation’ initiative, stating that engaging with society and surrounding communities is a key responsibility of the institution. During the event, students had the opportunity to ask questions directly to the Chancellor and share their thoughts, leading to discussions on various topics.
According to the university, this dialogue reflects the tradition of inquiry, idea exchange, and learning that has been a significant part of ancient Nalanda’s intellectual heritage. Rudraendra Tandon, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs, assured continuous support from the ministry in advancing Nalanda University’s academic, international, and institutional activities. The day before, on August 9, a high-level meeting chaired by Bihar Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd) was held to discuss the long-term development of Nalanda University.
The meeting focused on improving the university’s connectivity, developing the Nalanda-Rajgir Knowledge and Innovation Campus, enhancing collaboration with higher education institutions in Bihar, and promoting Nalanda’s intellectual and civilizational heritage. Efforts to strengthen Nalanda University as a global center for knowledge, innovation, and higher education were also reviewed. Participants included the university’s Chancellor, Chief Secretary of the Bihar Government, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs, Vice-Chancellor, and senior officials from the Government of India, Bihar Government, and the university.
After the meeting, as part of the Nalanda-Lok Bhavan lecture series, Professor Arvind Panagariya delivered a lecture on ‘State-led Change: The Agenda for Urbanization, Employment, and Reforms in Indian States.’ He shared his thoughts on the role of states in achieving the goal of a developed India, increasing employment opportunities, improving administration, maintaining financial discipline, and necessary reforms to facilitate business.
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