Sharda University, Greater Noida, welcomed its new batch of students with an inspiring celebration of culture, knowledge and leadership at its Orientation Programme—Deeksharambh 2026, held on September 3. The programme aimed to ease the transition of freshers into university life, familiarise them with Sharda University’s ethos and values, and ignite a spirit of curiosity, creativity and self-discovery.

The event was inaugurated by Chirag Paswan, Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Government of India, in the presence of Kritikka Awasthi, Bollywood actress, Prof. (Dr.) Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, and the university leadership, including Chancellor P.K. Gupta and Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sibaram Khara.

The programme featured vibrant cultural performances by university clubs representing music, dance, drama, fashion and literary arts, showcasing the diversity and creativity of Sharda’s student community.

Among those present were Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sibaram Khara; Dean (Academic) Dr. R.C. Singh; Admission Director Dr. Rajiv Gupta; Dean (Student Welfare) Dr. Pramod Kumar; Dr. R.P. Singh; Dean (Research) Dr. Bhuvnesh Kumar; Director (PR) Dr. Ajit Kumar; as well as Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff and students from various schools of the university.

Addressing the students, Chirag Paswan said that India’s youth possessed immense potential and could achieve success nationally and globally by adopting the right habits, maintaining a positive outlook and making informed lifestyle choices.

“Embrace this opportunity, challenge yourselves and contribute meaningfully to society, for the future of India rests in your hands,” he said, urging the students to reflect on where they saw themselves in five, 10 and 25 years. “The decisions you make today will shape that journey. When your passion becomes your profession, every moment of your work will bring joy and fulfilment. Choose wisely, for the day your passion aligns with your profession is the day you set yourself firmly in the right direction.”

Encouraging students to think beyond conventional boundaries, P.K. Gupta, Chancellor, Sharda University, said that Deeksharambh marked the beginning of a transformative journey.

“At Sharda University, we nurture creativity and curiosity, for these are the true driving forces of progress. Knowledge must not remain confined to books; it should be applied for the betterment of society,” he said.

Acknowledging that setbacks were a part of learning, Gupta said that with proper guidance, every student had the potential to succeed. He added that the university’s curricula were aligned with the National Education Policy and that its mission was to mould students into exemplary citizens committed to values, traditions and lifelong learning.

“A great responsibility rests upon the youth of today. The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 cannot be realised without them. Your efforts, beginning now, will shape the nation’s future and take us towards that goal,” he said.

Sharing his academic perspective, Prof. (Dr.) Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, emphasised the importance of balancing theoretical learning with practical knowledge.

“Students must uphold moral values, fulfil their duties and remain rooted in their cultural ethos, while embracing curiosity and innovation. True education comes not only from books but from every life experience, and it is this holistic approach that shapes the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.