Shri Aurobindo Gyan Kendra inaugurated at University of Jammu 

Jammu, Jan 8: Strengthening interdisciplinary learning,  and holistic education, the University of Jammu inaugurated the Shri Aurobindo Gyan Kendra at the Dhanvantri Library, providing students, scholars, and members of civil society a dedicated space to engage with the life, writings, and teachings of Maharishi Sri Aurobindo. The Centre offers access to curated academic resources and  promotes meaningful intellectual exchange across philosophy, literature, spirituality, and education.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ms. Sakeena Masood (Itoo), Hon’ble Minister for Health & Medical Education, School Education, Higher Education and Social Welfare Departments, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu. Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies; Prof. Sangita Gupta, Dean Planning and Development; Prof. J. P. Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs; Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar;  Padma Shri awardee Prof. Lalit Magotra; Padma Shri awardee Sh. Mohan Singh and Amrinder Singh Amn, Ex-Culture Secretary were also present.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest appreciated the University’s initiative in creating an academic space that preserves intellectual heritage while advancing reflective and value-based learning. She observed that societies grow stronger when the contributions of educators, thinkers, and professionals are remembered and acknowledged, as such remembrance inspires future generations and sustains cultural continuity. She noted that knowledge institutions play a vital role in nurturing unity, mutual respect, and shared human values, encouraging learners to look beyond divisions and engage constructively with ideas that promote understanding and cooperation. She encouraged students to actively utilise the resources of the Gyan Kendra to strengthen critical thinking, deepen perspective, and cultivate a balanced outlook towards learning and life.

In his address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai expressed satisfaction over the inauguration of the Shri Aurobindo Gyan Kendra and underscored its significance as an academic space for students, researchers, and members of civil society. He noted that the Centre enables learners to explore Sri Aurobindo’s work across multiple disciplines, supporting research that promotes analytical thinking and meaningful connections between diverse fields of knowledge.

Prof. Rai further observed that the Gyan Kendra supports personal development in alignment with Sri Aurobindo’s emphasis on inner growth, self-awareness, and balanced living, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of learning. He recalled Sri Aurobindo’s role as a philosopher, educationist, poet, and freedom thinker whose ideas on education, social responsibility, and human evolution continue to resonate in contemporary society. The Centre, he added, would encourage students to link academic inquiry with ethical reflection and constructive social engagement.

On the occasion, a documentary on the life and teachings of Sri Aurobindo was also screened, offering participants deeper insight into his intellectual journey and philosophical legacy which was greatly appreciated by the Chief Guest.

The Shri Aurobindo Gyan Kendra houses curated books, reference works, archival material, and digital resources, supporting research, seminars, reading programmes, and outreach initiatives for the university community and the wider public.

The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Vikram Singh Sahi, Incharge Librarian, Dhanvantri Library.

Among others present on the occasion included Deans, Directors, Rectors, Heads of Departments, faculty members, officers, staff, and students.

The proceedings of the entire programme were ably and professionally conducted by Dr. Kusam Sharma.