SRM University-AP honoured the 76th Year of India as a Republic with regal celebrations at the campus. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora hoisted the flag in the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Deans and Directors, faculty, staff and students, followed by a parade by the security staff of the university. Ms Jyotika Sri Dandi, student of Easwari School of Liberal Arts who represented the Indian team at the Women’s 4x400m Relay for the Paris Olympics 2024, was also present for the occasion.
In his address, Prof. Manoj K Arora spoke about the country’s golden heritage and the battle for freedom led by our freedom fighters and visionary leaders, which led to the momentous victory of Purna Swaraj. He underscored the significance of our Constitution representing the values that unite the diverse nation. “Our country has developed in leaps and bounds with our pivotal position on the global economic front, achievements in education and sports, and our advanced space programme. India is on its way to becoming a developed nation by 2047, and we must strive together as citizens to achieve this inclusive vision,” stated Prof. Arora in his address. He also briefed on the university’s stellar growth in academics, research and innovation, entrepreneurial startups, infrastructure and the plan for the upcoming year.
The celebration also witnessed the felicitation of the student-athlete and Olympian, Ms Jyotika Sri Dandi, who participated in the Paris Olympics 2024. The university awarded her a reward cheque of Rs 20 Lakhs for her remarkable contribution to Indian sports and her alma mater. In her address of gratitude, she stated, “SRM University-AP provided me with immense support for my academics with scholarships and the best resources for training. With two Olympians already in its fold, I am sure that in 10 years we will harbour the best contingent of athletes and academicians among all Indian universities.”
Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan sanctioned Rs 70 lakh to be awarded to students who have won various national and inter-university sports championships. Cash prizes ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 1,00,000 were awarded to student-athletes for their exemplary sports performances during the event. Faculty and staff who have rendered five years of service to the university were also honoured with a memento and certificate in recognition of their contribution to the university’s development. The Republic Day celebrations concluded with various cultural programmes by students celebrating the diversity of the great nation.
