President Pranab Mukherjeee today asked young scholars from esteemed educational institutes to repay the society for the investments made in them through research, development and innovation.
Addressing 13 scholars of IITs, IISc-Bangalore and IISERs at a first-of-its-kind 'In-Residence' programme at Rashtrapati Bhavan here, he called upon the students to contribute to the nation, work hard to make India great and address the challenges that the country confronts.
"This is the first such 'In-Residence' programme for scholars from IITs, IISc and IISERs. Similar programmes exist for writers, artists, grassroot innovators, NIT students and inspirational teachers," a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said.
"Describing them as persons with high level of talent, expertise and skill, the President asked the young scholars to repay society for the investments made in them through research, development and innovation. He asked them to make themselves unique from all others," it said.
Mukherjee described youth as leaders of the new generation and said they should demonstrate the indomitable spirit to bring about change in the country.
"He reminded that a large number of young men and women made major contributions to India's independence struggle. The President said the purpose of the In-Residence programmes was to democratise the Rashtrapati Bhavan and open it for the people," the statement said.
The President said people of India have the right to know about the Rashtrapati Bhavan and to be part of its life as well as enjoy its ambience.
"The President described the products of India's higher education institutions as people who are welcomed all over the world. He urged them to always remain fresh, energetic and creative," it added.
