On a bright and enthusiastic morning at Indira University, the campus came alive as Shri. Ramdas Athawale, Hon’ble Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, arrived to launch the Admissions 2026 drive, unveil the university’s newly SEO-optimized website, and deliver a keynote address on “From Personality Development to a Developed India: The Importance of Constitutional Values” over a 1-day seminar titled “From Values to Vision: Shaping a Developed Nation”.

The minister’s arrival was greeted with traditional dhol-tasha beats, welcoming him with warmth and high spirit. The gathering then stood for the National Anthem, followed by a brief Constitutional Day tribute through a video, setting a solemn and respectful tone for the day’s proceedings.

A beautiful cultural dance by Indira University students filled the hall with unity and cultural pride. The atmosphere was joyful and vibrant as applause greeted the performers. Soon after, the attention turned to an audio-visual presentation about the minister, highlighting his journey from grassroots activism to his current leadership in social justice — a story that resonated with many in the audience.

Dr. Anagha Joshi, Vice-Chancellor (In-charge) – Indira University, greeted Minister Athawale with respect and gratitude in her welcome address. She spoke earnestly about the importance of constitutional values in shaping responsible citizens. She also referenced Minister Athawale’s longstanding initiatives — support for people with disabilities, affordable housing, employment generation, and educational support, affirming that such leadership creates hope and opportunity for marginalized and aspiring youth.

Dr. Tarita Shankar, President Designate – Indira University, Chairperson and Chief Mentor- Indira Group of Institutes, felicitated Hon. Shri. Ramdas Athawale along with other dignitaries including Prof. Chetan Wakalkar, Academic Advisor and CMO, Indira University, Mr. Sahil Mehendale, Mr. Shardul Gangal, Executive Director – Indira University & Projects (SCES), and Dr. Anagha Joshi, Vice-Chancellor (In-charge) – Indira University.

Following this, the moment arrived to formally launch the new SEO-optimized website of Indira University – a step symbolizing access and readiness for the digital age, along with kicking off the Admissions 2026-27 “Opening Horizons” – a call to aspirants across disciplines to join the university’s vibrant academic community.

A major highlight of the event – the university announced a scholarship fund of ₹4.25 Crore to support over 200 deserving students. In a particularly touching gesture, six students affected by recent floods were called to the stage and publicly awarded their scholarships (100% fee waiver), underlining IU’s commitment to social responsibility and inclusive education.

In his keynote address, Hon’ble Shri. Ramdas Athawale, Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, expressed deep pride in the work being done by Indira University. He emphasized that education is not just key to individual growth, it uplifts families and strengthens society and the nation. He spoke passionately about the importance of constitutional values, and invoked the ideals of B. R. Ambedkar, highlighting how Ambedkar’s fight against social discrimination and injustice laid the foundation for a more equitable India. He applauded IU’s scholarship initiative and inclusive approach. True to his style, he spiced his address with witty poetic jokes — the students responded with enthusiastic claps and cheers, clearly inspired by his blend of seriousness and humour.

As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere was filled with hope, energy and renewed commitment. With the new website, the upcoming admissions drive, generous scholarships, and a stirring message grounded in constitutional values and social justice, Indira University reaffirmed its mission not only of academic excellence but of shaping responsible citizens for a developed India.