Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday spotlighted India’s logistics and infrastructure revolution, calling it the driving force behind the country’s economic rise and border security readiness.
Addressing the third convocation of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya in Vadodara via video conference, Singh said, “Stronger logistics systems mean stronger borders. Whether it’s delivering defence equipment or essential supplies to our soldiers, efficient logistics directly boosts morale and preparedness.”
Singh described the logistics sector as a game changer for 21st-century India, offering enormous career opportunities for the nation’s youth. He urged students to embrace their role in shaping a developed India, underscoring that the country’s progress hinges on their innovation and leadership.
Infrastructure Boom Fueling Economic Momentum
He highlighted various government initiatives, including the creation of multimodal transport hubs and mission-mode logistics schemes, which have:
• Lowered logistics costs
• Improved delivery timelines
• Enabled data-driven planning and execution
Railways at the Forefront of Transformation
Union Railway Minister and Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya Chancellor Ashwini Vaishnaw, also speaking at the event, detailed the historic strides made by Indian Railways over the past decade.
In the last one year alone:
• 5,300 km of new railway lines were added
• 368 km of tunnels were built, boosting regional connectivity
Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of building skilled human capital through institutions like Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, which has already signed 40 MoUs with industry and academia.
He also called on students and faculty to contribute research in emerging fields like marine engineering and collaborate with the marine industry for future-ready solutions.
Calling the university an “engine of development”, Vaishnaw said, “Our students have a responsibility to fuel the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India by 2047.”
Celebrating Academic Excellence
The convocation saw 194 graduates receiving degrees across various specializations. Students were honoured with:
• Academic Excellence Awards
• Best Project Recognitions
• Best Student Awards
Gati Shakti: India’s First Transport-Centric University
Vice Chancellor Professor Manoj Choudhary welcomed dignitaries and presented a report card on the university’s performance over the past three years. The event was attended by Vadodara MP Dr. Hemang Joshi, Rajmata Shubhangini Raje Gaekwad, senior military and railway officials, students, and parents.
Established as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya is India’s first institution dedicated to transport education, research, and training. It aligns with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which brings together 16 central ministries on a unified digital platform to enable integrated infrastructure development across railways, roads, ports, and inland waterways.
The overarching goal? To eliminate bottlenecks, enhance interconnectivity, and transform India into a global logistics powerhouse.
