C. P. Radhakrishnan attends 75th anniversary celebrations of V.O. Chidambaram College | Urges students to embrace technology, pursue knowledge and stay away from drugs
Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan attended the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and Alumni Meet of V.O. Chidambaram College in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, as the Chief Guest, returning to the institution where he studied between 1975 and 1978.
The visit brought back memories of his student years as he interacted with former classmates, recalled his experiences on campus and acknowledged the role played by his teachers in shaping his personality and outlook.
During the visit, the Vice-President paid floral tributes to the statue of freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaram Pillai on the college campus. He also inaugurated a commemorative arch marking the institution's 75 years of academic service and visited his former classroom, where he met fellow students from the 1975–78 batch.
Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan spoke about the lasting influence of his college, its faculty members and the people he met during his formative years. He recalled how the values and lessons acquired at the institution helped prepare him for the responsibilities he undertook later in life.
Revisiting an important chapter of his student life, the Vice-President also spoke about his participation in the movement against the Emergency while studying at the college. He recalled his efforts to mobilise financial assistance for the families of people who had been imprisoned during that period.
Paying tribute to V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, he highlighted the freedom fighter's contribution to India's independence movement, his sacrifices and his commitment to the welfare of workers.
The Vice-President also emphasised the importance of national unity and cultural diversity. He observed that India's strength as a united nation helps protect the languages, traditions and identities of its different communities, including Tamil culture.
He encouraged students to take pride in their mother tongue while learning other languages and promoting Tamil on international platforms. According to him, preserving regional languages and cultures while strengthening national unity is essential for India's progress.
Focusing on the role of education in nation-building, Radhakrishnan highlighted the growing presence of higher education institutions across the country. He urged V.O. Chidambaram College to build on its historic legacy by adopting modern technologies, encouraging scientific research and introducing emerging academic disciplines.
He also stressed the need to make quality education accessible to people from all sections of society, adding that educational institutions must continuously evolve to meet the demands of a changing world.
Delivering a message to young people, the Vice-President called upon students to develop discipline, acquire knowledge and make responsible choices in life. He particularly cautioned them against drug abuse and other harmful habits, urging them to focus on education, personal development and constructive activities.
He said the youth have an important responsibility in realising the vision of a developed India by 2047 and encouraged them to contribute to the country's progress through knowledge, dedication and positive thinking.
Expressing satisfaction over the development of his alma mater, Radhakrishnan said the Platinum Jubilee was not merely an occasion to celebrate the institution's achievements but also an opportunity to set new goals for the future.
Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, College Secretary A.P.C.V. Chockalingam, Principal Dr. C. Veerabagu, Alumni Association President A.V. Murugesan, college administrators, faculty members, alumni and students attended the celebrations.
The 75th anniversary event brought together generations of students and members of the academic community to celebrate the institution's journey, achievements and contribution to education.