At IIM Raipur convocation, S Jaishankar cites decade of progress
On April 4, 2026, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur held its 10th convocation ceremony, where External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered an inspiring address to the graduating students. His speech focused on the significant progress India has made over the past decade and the optimism that this progress has instilled in the nation.
India’s Progress Over the Last Decade
During his address, Jaishankar highlighted how India has adeptly navigated various global changes, including technological advancements and shifting power dynamics. He expressed a sense of hope for the future, stating, “There is an optimism in our society that is lacking in many other parts of the world.” He attributed this positivity to the tangible achievements of the last ten years, which have fostered a belief that the coming decade will continue to build on this foundation.
Key Themes from Jaishankar’s Address
Jaishankar’s speech encompassed several critical themes that resonate with the current socio-economic landscape of India:
- Economic Growth: India is now among the world’s top five economies, a testament to its robust growth trajectory and resilience in the face of global challenges.
- Inclusive Development: He emphasized the importance of inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of economic progress reach all segments of society.
- Leadership and Governance: Jaishankar spoke about the necessity of strong leadership in steering the nation toward a prosperous future.
- Digital Transformation: Embracing digital change is vital for India to remain competitive and innovative in the global arena.
- Self-Reliance: A key message was the importance of self-reliance and building national skills to enhance resilience against uncertainties.
- Global Partnerships: While fostering self-reliance, Jaishankar urged the need for India to collaborate with trusted partners globally, reinforcing the idea that teamwork can lead to greater achievements.
Optimism for the Future
Jaishankar’s remarks were not just rooted in past achievements but also reflected a forward-looking vision. He noted that the confidence gained from the last decade positions India well to tackle both domestic and international challenges. This optimism is crucial as the world faces numerous uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions, economic fluctuations, and environmental issues.
The Role of Education in National Development
As the convocation ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of the graduates, Jaishankar underscored the pivotal role of education in driving national development. He encouraged the students to leverage their knowledge and skills to contribute positively to society. The minister emphasized that educated youth are the backbone of a progressive nation, capable of leading India into a prosperous future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, S. Jaishankar’s address at IIM Raipur’s convocation served as a powerful reminder of India’s potential and the progress made over the past decade. His message of optimism, self-reliance, and global collaboration resonates deeply in a world that is constantly evolving. As the new graduates step into their professional lives, they carry with them the hope and responsibility of shaping India’s future.
Note: The insights shared in this article are based on the speech delivered by S. Jaishankar during the IIM Raipur convocation and reflect the current socio-economic context of India.
