Vadodara – The third convocation ceremony of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) was held today in Vadodara, Gujarat, celebrating academic excellence, national vision, and transformational progress in India’s infrastructure and logistics sectors. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh joined the event virtually as Chief Guest, while Union Minister of Railways and Chancellor of GSV, Shri Ashwini Vaishnav, addressed the gathering in person.
Logistics as a Pillar of National Security and Economic Development
In his virtual address, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that the logistics sector is a game changer for 21st century India, calling it the backbone of both national security and economic growth. He emphasized that stronger logistics services contribute directly to stronger borders, ensuring timely delivery of defence supplies and boosting the morale of soldiers stationed in border areas.
“India is witnessing an unprecedented transformation in its infrastructure and logistics sectors. This transformation is laying the foundation for long-term economic prosperity and national strength,” he stated.
Shri Singh called upon India’s youth to take active responsibility in building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by engaging with sectors such as logistics, defence manufacturing, and digital infrastructure.
Unprecedented Growth in Indian Railways Over 11 Years
Delivering the convocation address, Shri Ashwini Vaishnav highlighted the significant structural reforms and advancements in the Indian Railways over the past decade. He revealed that:
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In just the last one year, over 5,300 km of rail network was added.
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Tunnel construction has reached a record 368 km, enhancing connectivity in remote and hilly regions.
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India has re-emerged as a global economic force, and modern logistics and transport infrastructure are key to maintaining that trajectory.
He noted, “India was among the top economies for centuries. We lost that position due to colonial exploitation. But now, with focused human resource development through institutions like GSV, we are on track to regain our global stature.”
Shri Vaishnav also encouraged the university to initiate research in marine engineering and expand collaborations with marine and logistics industries. GSV has already signed MoUs with 40+ industrial and educational institutions, strengthening its academic-industrial ecosystem.
GSV: Engine of Development and Innovation
Describing Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya as the “engine of development”, Shri Vaishnav stressed the importance of innovation, research, and skilled manpower in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047. He urged students to become catalysts of change by leveraging their knowledge in real-world applications.
Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Choudhary presented the university’s progress over the last three years and welcomed dignitaries including Vadodara MP Dr. Hemang Joshi, Rajmata Shubhangini Raje Gaekwad, senior officials of the Indian Army and Railways, and hundreds of students and parents.
At the event, 194 students were conferred degrees across various disciplines. Students demonstrating exceptional performance were honored with Academic Excellence Awards, Outstanding Project Awards, and Best Student Awards.
PM Gati Shakti: Vision for Integrated Infrastructure
Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya is a part of the broader vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and aligns closely with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to revolutionize India’s infrastructure through integrated planning and coordinated execution. The plan brings 16 ministries onto a unified digital platform to ensure synchronized implementation of infrastructure projects across transport sectors—railways, roadways, ports, and waterways.
The goal is to eliminate infrastructure bottlenecks, reduce logistics costs, and drive India’s global competitiveness in trade, mobility, and manufacturing.
Conclusion: Youth at the Helm of India’s Development
The convocation served not just as a ceremonial event, but as a powerful reminder of the role of education, innovation, and infrastructure in nation-building. Leaders from the defence and transport sectors emphasized the importance of empowering youth, optimizing logistics, and preparing India for a globally competitive future.
As India progresses toward its centennial year of independence in 2047, institutions like Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya are poised to play a pivotal role in creating skilled professionals who will lead the country into a new era of technological strength, economic prosperity, and strategic resilience.
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Source: PIB
