Sanjay Jha links Nalanda’s Global Aspirations with Bihar’s Development Drive

Manoj Kumar
info@impressivetimes.com

New Delhi: The Union Government has reiterated its commitment to develop Nalanda University as a global centre for higher education and research. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also said the university is being strengthened as a modern, multidisciplinary and international institution, rooted in Nalanda’s ancient legacy. He added the focus is on international collaborations, partnerships with foreign universities, student and faculty exchanges, joint research programmes and modern infrastructure to place Nalanda on the global academic map. During the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address, National Working President, JDU and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Kumar Jha highlighted Bihar’s historical importance and development.

Referring to Nalanda, he said, “When Europe did not have a single university, India had Nalanda.” Jha dismissed allegations related to voter list revision (SIR), stating that elections in Bihar were conducted smoothly with no proven cases of vote theft, reflecting improved governance. Highlighting achievements under PM Narendra Modi, Sanjay Kumar Jha said welfare schemes such as pucca housing and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) have benefited crores, with Bihar emerging as a major beneficiary. He noted that India is now the world’s largest rice producer, has made major gains in fish and milk production, and is the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer globally. Referring to Bihar’s progress after Jharkhand’s separation, he said infrastructure has improved, investors are returning, and village roads now compare well with other states. He cited the Purvodaya initiative and projects such as the Raxaul–Haldia six-lane corridor as proof of development. He credited strong Centre–state coordination and the double-engine government, saying Bihar is now part of India’s growth engine.