Haridwar/Dehradun, Nov. 3 -- President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday said that the integration of ancient Vedic knowledge with cutting-edge scientific research and the spirit of universal brotherhood is advancing India's knowledge tradition in contemporary times. She said this while addressing the second convocation ceremony of the University of Patanjali in Haridwar. Highlighting India's rich spiritual and intellectual heritage, the President said great personalities have made invaluable contributions to the development of human civilisation. "Maharishi Patanjali, the greatest of sages, removed the impurities of the mind through yoga, of speech through grammar, and of the body through Ayurveda," she said, expressing happiness that the University of Patanjali is carrying forward his legacy by making this great tradition accessible to society. Emphasising the importance of a holistic approach to education, the President said that the University's India-centric vision, combining the spirit of universal brotherhood with scientific progress, is vital for addressing global challenges. "Students educated in this tradition understand that protecting the environment and living in harmony with nature are essential for humanity's future," she said, expressing confidence that graduates would contribute to tackling issues such as climate change. The President further said that the wish for universal well-being is the hallmark of Indian culture and that harmony and inclusivity pave the way for sustainable development. "Nurturing individuals leads to nurturing families, which in turn strengthens society and the nation," she added. Murmu lauded the university's approach of nation-building through individual development and expressed confidence that its students would play a pivotal role in creating a healthy society and a developed India through righteous conduct and ethical living. She said that Yoga and Ayurveda have been instrumental in making India and the world healthier, with Patanjali Yogpeeth playing a vital role in promoting these ancient practices. "Uttarakhand is the land of gods, with holy rivers emanating and also a stream of knowledge in which institutions like Patanjali University are playing an important role in carrying forward ancient Vedic knowledge tradition," said Murmu. Urging students and society to be sensitive towards environmental conservation, President Draupadi Murmu said, "one needs to adopt a lifestyle according to nature and contribute towards environmental conservation so that "we are well prepared for challenges related to climate change." Expressing pleasure over 64 per cent of students obtaining degrees at the convocation being female, President Murmu said that this is not merely a number but an indication of developing India being led by womenfolk. Governor Lt Gen (retd) Gurmit Singh said that Uttarakhand is not merely a state but a global centre of yoga, Ayurveda, and spirituality. "The traditions of yoga and Ayurveda that have flourished on this sacred land have spread the message of health, balance, and harmony across the world," he said. Congratulating the graduating students, the governor expressed confidence that they would meet the challenges of the future and use their education and skills for the service of society. "The knowledge acquired by our sages was never meant for personal benefit alone, but for the well-being of the entire universe," he said. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, welcoming the President, lauded her commitment to uplifting the deprived and marginalised sections of society. Recalling her recent flight in a Rafale fighter jet, Dhami said, "The entire nation witnessed an inspiring example of her indomitable courage, patriotism, and determination." At the convocation, a total of 1424 degrees, 54 Gold medals, 62 PhD degrees and 3 D.Lit degrees were awarded to the students....