Mashelkar speaks at SPPU’s foundation day, urges students to start building value-based country

Pune: Renowned scientist Raghunath Mashelkar on Tuesday called for value-driven nation building and urged the youth not to wait for timelines, such as Viksit Bharat 2047, to contribute to India's development.Mashelkar was the chief guest at the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU)'s 77th foundation day celebration held on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, the scientist paid tribute to eminent personalities who were conferred the Jeevansadhana Gaurav Puraskar, including the late Ajit Pawar for his contribution to social and political life. The award was also given to Ashok Khade for his contribution to the trade and industry sector, Appasaheb Dadaba Rajale for the cooperative sector, Pandit Vidyasagar for the education sector and Shama Bhate for the arts sector."Why should we wait until 2047 to develop India? It should be done even before that. The country's youth have the necessary capacity to achieve the aim. The new generation should take the initiative and accept responsibility," he said. A developed India should stand on the foundation of four values — service, practice, creativity and sensitivity, Mashelkar added.Meanwhile, he said Pawar was not just a politician, but an example of dedication. "He had a strong grip on administration and was known for fearless decision-making. Despite Pune International Centre being sanctioned in 2014, successive govts were unable to allot land for the building. It was Pawar who finally fast-tracked our request with just one condition — ‘ensure that the think tank is of truly international standard'."SPPU vice-chancellor Suresh Gosavi gave away various awards for the best college, principal, teacher, innovative undertaking, librarian, sports, etc.