PM inaugurates Nalanda University campus in Bihar

• The Indian Prime Minister inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University, an international university, close to the site of the ancient ruins of Nalanda at Rajgir in Bihar.
• Asserting that Nalanda is a symbol of India’s academic heritage and vibrant cultural exchange

Wide representation

• Representatives of many countries visited the inauguration.
• He said the new campus proved that Bihar was on the path of development.
• Parliament established Nalanda University through the Nalanda University Act, 2010.
• The Act formed the basis for implementing
• The decisions arrived at the second East Asia Summit in the Philippines in 2007
• for the establishment of the university as an “international institution for pursuit of intellectual, philosophical, historical and spiritual studies”.
• The External Affairs Minister and 17 Ambassadors from participating countries attended the event, along with Bihar Governor & Chief Minister,
• Before inaugurating the campus, the PM visited the ancient ruins of Nalanda and planted a sapling of the Bodhi tree brought from Bodh Gaya.
• The renaissance of Nalanda University near its ancient ruins will introduce India’s potential to the world.
• Nalanda is not just a renaissance of India’s past, the heritage of many countries and Asia is linked to it.
• In days to come, Nalanda University will once again become a major centre for our cultural exchange.”
• The ancient Nalanda University was established in the 5th century and attracted students from all over the world.
• The ancient university flourished for 800 years before it was burnt down by invaders in the 12th century.

Prelims Takeaway:

• Nalanda
• Buddhism