Viksit Bharat @2047 to Be Built on Knowledge, Character and Service: Vice-President in Puducherry

Puducherry, December 29: Vice-President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday said that Viksit Bharat @2047 will be realised not merely through infrastructure development, but through the integration of knowledge, character, and service, underscoring the role of education, values, and social responsibility in nation-building.

Addressing a civic reception in Puducherry during his maiden visit after assuming office, the Vice-President inaugurated a housing project under the Smart Cities Mission and handed over the keys of 216 newly constructed tenements to beneficiaries. The project reaffirms the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable urban development.

The civic reception was organised by various organisations of Puducherry, including the Puducherry Citizens Forum, religious leaders, representatives of hospitals, educational institutions, commerce and artisan bodies, the Bar Council, and hotel associations. Shri Radhakrishnan, who earlier served as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, recalled his close association with the Union Territory and described it as a land of rich civilisational, cultural, and spiritual heritage.

Referring to the ancient port of Arikamedu, he highlighted Puducherry’s historic maritime links with the Roman world and noted that the region has always been a vibrant cultural bridge between India and the world. Recalling the freedom struggle, he referred to the historic Keezhoor referendum, where the people overwhelmingly voted in favour of Puducherry’s merger with India, reflecting deep patriotism and a strong desire for freedom. He stressed the importance of preserving and passing on the legacy of freedom fighters to future generations.

Expressing satisfaction over the early completion of the housing project, the Vice-President said that a house is not merely a physical structure, but a symbol of dignity, security, and hope for a better future. He noted that the project was closely monitored during his tenure as Lieutenant Governor. He later visited the Kumaraguru Pallam housing site and interacted with beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude for the timely completion of the project.

Highlighting key welfare initiatives of the Union Government, Shri Radhakrishnan referred to schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana and PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, stating that direct benefit transfer has ensured transparency and effective delivery. He appreciated the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the mission of “Housing for All” and commended the Puducherry government for effective implementation.

Earlier in the day, the Vice-President inaugurated the Senior Secondary Block of Petit Seminaire CBSE School and lauded the institution’s 181-year legacy of holistic and value-based education. Emphasising that education is the only imperishable wealth, he urged students to pursue learning with integrity, depth, and social commitment. He also highlighted the transformative impact of the National Education Policy 2020, which has shifted the education system towards critical thinking, creativity, and holistic development.

Later, Shri Radhakrishnan unveiled the statue of Mahakavi Subramania Bharatiyar at the Bharatiyar Memorial, paying rich tribute to the legendary poet and freedom thinker. Calling it a moment of pride, he said Bharatiyar’s years in Puducherry represented the golden age of modern Tamil literature, marked by fearless expression, philosophical depth, and boundless love for the nation.

The events were attended by Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Thiru K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister Thiru N. Rangasamy, public representatives, and other dignitaries.Vice-President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressing a civic reception in Puducherry on Sunday.