Pranab Mukherjee regets absence of Indian university among top 200 of world

GANGTOK: President Pranab Mukherjee today regretted the absence of any Indian university among the top 200 in the world but expressed confidence that things will look up due to the determination of students and teachers.

"As per some surveys, out of two hundred universities of A grade, no Indian university is there. We note it that we are much behind because of lack of innovation, which is the key to the success of a university," Mukherjee said while laying the foundation for the constrution of the Sikkim Central University at Yangang.

The President said "we should not be demoralised and discouraged by this. When I look at the eyes of the youth and the determination of the students and teachers, I am hopeful that things will look up."

The University of Sikkim started functioning in 2007 from a temporary accommodation with the administration stating that they had acquired more than 300 acres of land for the deemed university campus.

Sources, however, said the varsity is facing problems from locals in taking physical possession of the land.

Mukherjee today also inaugurated Siddeshwara Dham at Solophok, Namchi in South Sikkim and dedicated it to the nation.

Addressing a gathering on the occasion, the President spoke about unity of all religions and the fact that all of them teach the same message of peace, humanity, love, compassion and service to humanity, a release from his office said.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Governor of Sikkim, Balmiki Prasad Singh and Chief Minister , Shri Pawan Chamling.