Delivering his address at the 22nd convocation of the SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) at Kattankulathur, he said: “We never wanted to encash our research. Recalling that on the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the COVID vaccine from India was sent to over 100 countries free of cost. That is the greatness of India.”

He recalled his recent meeting with the Speaker of Kenyan Parliament, who thanked India for COVID vaccine. India’s COVID vaccine has saved the entire humanity. India was always for peace, development, and humanity, he said.

The Vice-President appreciated SRMIST for building an academic ecosystem that promoted interdisciplinary learning, creativity, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking; its emphasis on translating research into practical solutions that improve lives, strengthen industry and contribute to sustainable development.

In his speech, Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar said: “We have got a very lengthy heritage of science and technology in our country. What we require today is: we must be proud of our yesteryear’s, earlier technology, earlier science. Even if we are going ahead in today’s technology, we must be proud of what we had in our ancient times.”

SRMIST Chancellor T.R. Paarivendhar; Pro-Chancellor (Administration) Ravi Pachamuthu; Pro-Chancellor (Academics) P. Sathyanarayanan; Vice-Chancellor C. Muthamizhchelvan; and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

R. Velusamy, President – Automotive Business, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited was conferred the degree of doctor of science (Honoris Causa).

Across all campuses, a total of 11,684 graduates were eligible for degrees this year under the Faculty of Engineering and Technology. The Vice-President also unveiled a 32-foot statue of Founder Chancellor Dr. T. R. Paarivendhar at Vendhar Museum.