Ahluwalia spoke on the challenges of economic and social development in Punjab. Punjab has to improve its investment climate, build on its existing strength of infrastructure, and develop skills needed for supporting the process of industrialisation in the state. Institutions of higher learning have an important role to play in this process.

She said the National Institute of Biotechnology, Institute of Nano Technology, Public Health Foundation of India are coming to Punjab.

As the Government of India is gearing up to set up 30 new Central Universities in the country, Punjab must attract at least two of these in the state. We must attract Centres of Excellence, an IIT, an IIM, and a National Law School. Institutes of higher learning and research are crucial for building a knowledge base which in turn is crucial for global competitiveness and provides a basis for sustainable growth and development in the state.

As many as 563 students were awarded degrees and 130 were given medals. Four honoris causa degrees were awarded. These included Dr Pritam Singh, an academician, an awardee of Punjabi Sahitya Akademi Fellowship and former president of Kendri Lekhak Sabha, who was awarded Doctor of Literature.

Film director and producer Yash Chopra was also conferred with the degree of Doctor of Literature. Another D Litt degree was given to Dr G K Chadha, member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. Dr Rajinder K Pachouri, internationally renowned environmentalist who received the Nobel Prize, was conferred with Doctor of Science degree. He was, however, not present to collect the degree.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said that Panjab University has emerged as a significant centre for scientific research. The varsity has distinguished itself by its work in different fields. It has played a significant role in Punjab’s overall contribution to national life.

Ansari added that a century earlier, a university degree was considered a recipe for steady and dignified existence in a society characterised by settled equations and relationships. Times, perceptions and objectives have changed. A BA is almost irrelevant; the determinant for naukaris are decidedly different; changes in lifestyles, demographic profiles and life expectancy have impacted adversely on expectations from pension; the moment of eventual demise, statistically speaking, stands deferred.

It was for the second consecutive year that the convocation was held in two parts. While the honorary degrees were awarded in presence of the dignitaries, other students were given degrees after a two hour long break as the Vice-President had to leave.