Dimapur, Nagaland: The newly established Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar Central Library was inaugurated at International University, Dimapur, marking a significant milestone in fostering knowledge, research, and intellectual growth in the region. The event was graced by the Governor of Nagaland, La. Ganesan, who emphasised the pivotal role of libraries as centers of wisdom and learning.
Speaking at the inauguration, Governor La. Ganesan highlighted that the library, housing an extensive collection of 75,000 books, is not just a tribute to Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, but also a commitment to enriching academic resources for students and scholars. He described libraries as beacons of wisdom and sanctuaries of knowledge, crucial for shaping young minds and fostering intellectual curiosity.
Reflecting on the contributions of Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, who is the founder of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the Governor underscored his lifelong dedication to national unity, cultural awakening, and selfless service. As the founder of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Hedgewar laid the foundation for a movement centered on nation-building, character development, and social harmony. The naming of this central library in his honor, the Governor noted, serves as a reminder of his commitment to an empowered and self-reliant India.
Highlighting the historical role of libraries, the Governor referenced ancient centers of learning like Nalanda and Takshashila, which played a key role in advancing education and critical thought. He urged students to utilize the library not only for academic pursuits but also for broadening their understanding of life, values, and nation-building.
The inauguration ceremony also shed light on Nagaland’s rich educational and cultural heritage. The Governor noted that the people of Nagaland have long been seekers of knowledge and emphasized that the new library will reinforce the state’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and holistic education.
University Expansion and Future Plans
During the event, Pro Chancellor Dr Utkarsh Sharma announced plans for additional infrastructure expansion at the university. The new blocks, covering 75,000 square feet, will accommodate the upcoming AYUSH-based Naturopathy Hospital, Physiotherapy and Medical Lab Technology facilities, classrooms, and OPD services, aimed at benefiting patients across Nagaland.
Chancellor Dr SN Pandey elaborated on the university’s role in promoting Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (BNYS) education, a pioneering initiative in Arunachal Pradesh under the World Institution Building Programme (WIBP). He emphasised that students from Northeast states, including Assam, Sikkim, Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya, and Mizoram, would be encouraged to pursue studies at the university, with state governments urged to nominate bright candidates for BNYS programs.
International University, Nagaland is a state-run university in Nagaland. The university was formerly known as The Global Open University, Nagaland. It was established under Act 3 of 2006 and amended under Act 6 of 2024.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Subhram Rajkhowa, presenting the university’s progress report, announced that the new academic session will introduce Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in Law, Nursing, Naturopathy, Physiotherapy, Medical Lab Technology, BBA, and MBA. He further revealed that by July 2026, the university will launch Engineering and Technology courses, including Computer Science, Hydro Electric Power Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, and Data Science.
In his presidential remarks, Founder Chancellor Dr Priyaranjan Trivedi expressed his vision of making International University, Nagaland, a world-class educational institution. He highlighted efforts to attract students from Asia, the Indo-Pacific region, North and South America, Europe, Australia, Oceania, and Africa, with multiple MoUs for international faculty and student exchange programs already in progress.
Following the inaugural ceremony, Governor La Ganesan visited the university’s International Guest House, after which a Vote of Thanks was delivered by Registrar Dr Roopam Bachhil. She acknowledged the support of the Nagaland Minister of Higher Education, represented by Additional Secretary Sentiyanger Pongen, and lauded the achievements of the university since its establishment in 2006 under the State Legislature Act 3 of 2006.
The inauguration of the Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar Central Library stands as a testament to the power of knowledge, unity, and academic advancement, strengthening Nagaland’s position as a hub for higher education and research.
