Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates New Nalanda University Campus, Reinforcing India’s ‘Act East’ Policy

Rajgir, Bihar, June 19, 2024 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, on Wednesday, with the presence of Heads of Missions from 17 countries, underscoring India’s commitment to the ‘Act East’ policy. The event showcased India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and revitalize ancient civilizational linkages.

The university, a collaborative effort between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) nations, aims to revive Nalanda’s historical status as a hub of knowledge and learning. The foreign diplomats, many representing countries with deep cultural connections to India, expressed their admiration for the initiative.

Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador of Thailand to India, shared her thoughts on social media: “Honoured to join other 16 dip colleagues at the inauguration of Nalanda University’s new campus. Re-establishment of NU has revitalised civilisational linkages and promoted P2P connect in the region. Will keep our active partnership with NU towards a sustainable Thailand-India relations.”

Prime Minister Modi, in his address, emphasized Nalanda’s heritage as a symbol of global, Asian, and cultural unity, highlighted by the attendance of diplomats from various countries. Singapore’s High Commissioner, Simon Wong, expressed his admiration, stating, “Front row seat to listen to Honourable PM Narendra Modi ji speak during the official inauguration of the Nalanda University. Most impressed. So privileged to visit the UNESCO Nalanda University ruins. Felt very blessed by the spirit of Buddhism.”

The diplomats shared photos from the event, including their interactions with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, the new campus, and the ruins of the ancient university. Ina Krisnamurthi, Ambassador of Indonesia to India, posted, “Honoured to represent Indonesia at the inauguration of new Nalanda University by PM Modi ji and EAM Jaishankar.”

Nick McCaffrey, Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to India, also expressed his delight: “Very early start this morning to get to the re-opening of the ancient Nalanda Univ in Bihar by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. Honoured to be here and enjoy Bihari food once again!”

EAM Jaishankar highlighted the broader significance of Nalanda University’s revival: “It also marks the realisation of a longstanding commitment by India to the East Asia Summit grouping. It reflects the seriousness with which we pursue our Act East policy. But most of all, it underlines Bharat’s endeavour to emerge as a Vishwa Bandhu, extending the hands of friendship and cooperation to the international community.”

Jaishankar further elaborated on India’s efforts to rejuvenate civilizational linkages and celebrate shared cultural heritage: “By doing so, we contribute to the rejuvenation of civilisational linkages, to the celebration of our shared cultural heritage, and to the appreciation of the immense diversity of our existence.”