Dhankhar urges youth to set vision for nation, humanity at Sherwood Foundation Day
History remembers only those who lived and worked for the betterment of society," he said while addressing students, faculty, and invited dignitaries at Sherwood College's 156th Foundation Day.
Referring to India's civilizational heritage, Dhankhar said the country's 5,000-year-old culture demands more than passive pride — it calls for active participation in shaping its future. "India demands unflinching pride and dedication from its youth," he asserted.
Underscoring India's demographic advantage, he noted that nearly 65% of the population is under the age of 35. "We are not just the fastest-growing major economy — we are a nation of youthful strength. Let us not just respond to global changes but shape them."
Dhankhar also invoked the legacy of notable Sherwood alumni, including Major Somnath Sharma, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, and actor Amitabh Bachchan. "Their legacy is your foundation — now it's your responsibility to build on it," he told students.
Speaking about India's transformation in the past decade, he pointed to progress in infrastructure, economic growth, and digital innovation. He encouraged students to actively engage with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and machine learning. "India is poised to lead globally in digital connectivity," he said.
Uttarakhand governor Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmit Singh also addressed the gathering, calling Sherwood College a "beacon of national pride and character-building."
He praised the institution for nurturing leaders across fields and lauded principal Amandeep Singh Sandhu for preserving its legacy.
Later in the day, the vice president met chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at the Army helipad in Haldwani before flying back to Delhi. Governor Singh was also present. The three leaders discussed ongoing developmental and cultural initiatives in Uttarakhand. The CM thanked Dhankhar for his visit and presented him with curated products from the state's "House of Himalayas" brand. The CM and Governor also conducted an aerial survey of the Jamrani Dam project, joined by several local officials and dignitaries.
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