"Universities and institutes of higher learning are the best forum for debates, discussions, free exchange of views such atmosphere should be encouraged," said President Pranab Mukherjee.
Addressing the first convocation of Nalanda University, the President said that "the universities reflect an idea, a culture that flourished for 1,200 years before it was destroyed in the 13th century."
Excerpts from president speech
- Universities must be bastions of free speech and expression. It (Nalanda) must be the arena where diverse and conflicting thoughts contend. There should be no room for intolerance, prejudice and hatred within the spaces of this institution. Further, it must act as the flag bearer for co-existence of multiple views, thoughts and philosophies," he said
- "Dr Amartya Sen in his book 'The Argumentative India' has correctly pointed out that debate and discussion is the ethos, a part of Indian life which cannot be done away with
He said that the modern Nalanda should ensure that this great tradition finds new life and strength within its limits.