LG tells DU freshers to cultivate intellectual curiosity

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Sunday shared highlights of his address at the Freshers’ Orientation Programme 2026 of Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, underscoring the need to cultivate intellectual curiosity. He shared a personal reflection with the students, saying, “I am a product of Delhi University,” recalling that he had completed both his graduation and post-graduation in Delhi and had never studied abroad.

“Whatever I have been able to contribute in service of the nation overseas was built on the foundation laid at Delhi University,” he said, urging students to have confidence in India’s institutions and their own abilities.

Sandhu also inaugurated the Kirori Mal College Incubation Centre, quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remark that “India’s university campuses are emerging as dynamic centres where Yuva Shakti drives breakthrough innovations”.

The inauguration took place during the college’s Orientation Programme 2026 at the Shankar Lal Concert Hall, University of Delhi. The LG also inaugurated the Science Block Lift. The event was attended by Kirori Mal College Governing Body Chairperson Prof Vasuben Trivedi, Delhi University Registrar Vikas Gupta, Principal Prof Dinesh Khattar, faculty members, parents and students.

In a message on X, Sandhu said, “Addressed the Freshers’ Orientation Programme 2026 of Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi. For every student, this marks the beginning of a journey of intellectual discovery, personal growth and expanding horizons.

“Encouraged them to cultivate intellectual curiosity, a scientific temperament and independent thinking, while embracing the values of service, integrity and excellence. Wished them an enriching and meaningful road ahead, guided by a lifelong spirit of learning,” he said.

Sandhu said university campuses were emerging as centres where young people were driving new ideas and technological breakthroughs. He said the newly inaugurated incubation centre would support research and entrepreneurship among students.

The LG said whatever he had been able to contribute in service of the nation overseas was built on the foundation laid at Delhi University, and that his message to every student was to believe in themselves, have confidence in India’s institutions, opportunities, and their own capabilities, adding that the future was theirs to shape.