Pune, Correspondent

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described Pune as a true “confluence of culture, nationalism, and technology”, highlighting the city’s rich heritage and modern dynamism. Speaking at the sixth convocation ceremony of Symbiosis Skills and Professional University, Singh praised Maharashtra as the cultural capital of India, tracing its legacy from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Hindavi Swaraj to Lokmanya Tilak’s vision of Purna Swaraj.

“Pune has always been a hub of cultural awakening, education, and nationalism. It is as deeply rooted in tradition as it is advanced in technology. One can confidently say that Pune truly represents the union of culture and technology,” Singh said.

The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal, Lt. Gen. Dhiraj Seth (GOC-in-C, Southern Command), Chancellor Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, Pro-Chancellor Dr. Swati Mujumdar, Sanjeevani Mujumdar, and Symbiosis International University Pro-Chancellor Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar.

During the ceremony, the School of Defence and Aerospace Technology was also inaugurated. Dr. Swati Mujumdar delivered the welcome address. Degrees were conferred upon 1,532 students, while two students received the Chancellor’s Gold Medal, two were honored with the Aatmanirbhar Award, and one student received the Kushal Award.

“The Maharashtra government is working to make the state a hub for defence technology. Emphasis will be placed on investment, production, and human resource development in this sector. Symbiosis University has created an exemplary model by blending skill-based education with strong values.” — Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister

The convocation, held amid great enthusiasm, witnessed a brief moment of commotion when a snake was spotted near the main stage just before the ceremony began. Security personnel and police quickly acted to control the situation, safely capturing the reptile and clearing the area, ensuring the program continued smoothly.

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