Modi Hails Nalanda’s Revival of Ancient Scholarly Debate”

New Delhi, June 28, 2026 Emphasising the value of India’s intellectual heritage in today’s academic environment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Nalanda University for reviving the ancient tradition of Shastrarth. The initiative was presented as an effort to reconnect modern education with structured dialogue, critical thinking, and knowledge exchange rooted in history. Speaking at the university, Modi noted that Shastrarth is not limited to debate but reflects a culture of thoughtful discussion and engagement with different ideas. He appreciated Nalanda University for restoring this practice within its academic framework and highlighted the participation of students from different parts of the world. Addressing the changing educational landscape, the Prime Minister also referred to the growing influence of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. He stressed the importance of ensuring that innovation progresses alongside human creativity and cultural understanding, rather than replacing them. The revival of Shastrarth was positioned as more than a symbolic return to the past. It reflected an attempt to create an educational model that combines historical wisdom with contemporary learning, while encouraging dialogue, curiosity, and global academic exchange.