The 13th Convocation Ceremony at Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) witnessed a powerful speech by Shri Mukesh D. Ambani, Chairman and CEO of Reliance Industries, who shared his vision for India’s future and encouraged the graduating class of 2025 to embrace innovation and leadership.

In his speech, Ambani lauded the achievements of PDEU, highlighting its rapid growth and notable contributions to research, innovation and patent filing. “Our university has published hundreds of impactful research papers and filed more than a hundred patents,” Ambani noted, adding that PDEU is among the top 50 in innovation as per the NIRF 2025 ranking.

He also emphasized the essential role of the university in India’s journey towards energy independence, and urged the students to push the boundaries of green energy. “The PDEU must make its own contribution to win this race in green energy, green materials and green economy,” he declared, reinforcing the institution’s purpose of fostering innovation for India’s energy needs.

Celebrating India’s growth and challenges

Ambani took a moment to reflect on India’s current position on the world stage. “The global economy is growing at less than 2.5%, while India is running at almost 8%,” he remarked. This growth, he noted, is a direct result of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and vision.

He acknowledged the global challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, but was optimistic, stating, “In this race, I JEETA WOHI SIKANDAR! Under the dynamic leadership of PM Modi, I believe in Bharat Jeetega. Bharat Aage Badhega. Bharat Duniya Ko Badalega.”

Ambani further emphasized the importance of India’s self-reliance in critical technologies. “History shows that countries become true economic powers only when they are strong in science and technology,” he stressed. Drawing comparisons with global powers like the US, Europe, Japan and China, Ambani stated that it is now India’s turn to lead emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, space technologies and nuclear fusion.

4 key values

Ambani offered the graduates four key values ​​to guide their journey: curiosity, courage, perseverance and gratitude. “Curiosity is the child inside you that keeps asking ‘Why?’ and ‘Why not?'” Ambani said, urging students to always remain curious and willing to question the status quo. He also shared personal insights, stating, “In the age of AI, the person with the most answers is smart, but the person with the best questions is a leader. And all of you will be those leaders.”

He also emphasized the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. “Success is not a 100-meter sprint, it’s a long, patient marathon,” Ambani advised, encouraging students to keep moving forward, even in difficult times. Gratitude and humility were other key themes in his speech, with Ambani reminding the graduates that success is not just about getting to the top, but staying grounded once you get there.

Commitment to growth and support

Ambani concluded his speech by reaffirming the Reliance Foundation’s continued support for the PDEU, having contributed Rs. 150 million over the last decade. He expressed deep pride in the progress of the university and wished the graduates a bright future. “You represent the confident and unstoppable spirit of the New India,” Ambani said, while congratulating them on their hard work and determination.

He also acknowledged the important role of teachers and parents, whose support has been critical to student success. “Behind every successful student is a teacher who encouraged, challenged, supported and believed in their potential,” Ambani noted, acknowledging the collective effort that made this moment possible.