At the 5th convocation ceremony of Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) in Gandhinagar, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized that national security today extends far beyond geographical borders and traditional weaponry. Addressing students, she highlighted the growing importance of cyber security, data protection, and diplomacy in safeguarding the nation.
President Murmu pointed out that in the digital age, threats such as cybercrime, phishing attacks, and data breaches have emerged as serious concerns. She described these as “real and evolving challenges” that require advanced technological expertise and proactive strategies.
During the ceremony, the National Security Advisor Ajit Doval received the Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) from the President Droupadi Murmu, in recognition of his lifetime of national service, visionary leadership, strategic foresight and vital contributions to strengthening India’s national security.
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval declared that India is undergoing a historic “new awakening,” where national security is no longer the exclusive domain of uniformed personnel but a collective responsibility of every citizen.
Addressing the convocation, Doval emphasised that a nation’s willpower and the morale of its people are the ultimate deciders of its safety, often outweighing mere military or technological superiority. “After a long time in history, we are seeing that in India, a new awakening has set in. National security is the responsibility of the entire country, and not just of the armed forces or Police or Intelligence. This is our collective strength. Together, our collective strength builds the national morale,” he said.
He described national security as a “complex phenomenon” with various aspects, including military strength, technological prowess and diplomacy. “Military power of the country, technological power, resources, diplomatic powers and its human resources. Sometimes, when this comprehensive national power is assessed, faults occur when it comes to the morale of the nation,” he said.
The convocation ceremony was attended by several prominent leaders, including Governor of Gujarat Mr Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
A total of 562 students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs were awarded degrees during the ceremony. Leaders encouraged graduates to adopt a “nation-first” approach and contribute actively to India’s security and justice systems.
President Murmu expressed special appreciation for female students, noting their outstanding performance in engineering and security disciplines. She said their achievements reflect a strong and progressive vision of a developed India, with women ready to play key roles in the defense sector. Concluding her address, the President urged students to dedicate themselves to building a secure, just, and self-reliant India, emphasizing that youth are the foundation of the country’s bright and safe future.
