HT Bureau
Guwahati, May 1: Lakshman Prasad Acharya inaugurated the Sarat Mahanta Memorial Lecture organised by the Sarat Mahanta Foundation at Royal Global University on Friday.
Paying tribute to late Prof Sarat Mahanta, the Governor described him as an eminent educationist and social thinker whose contributions continue to inspire generations.
He highlighted Prof Mahanta’s academic legacy and his role in advocating for the rights of marginalised communities during his tenure with the Assam Human Rights Commission.
Emphasising the broader role of education, the Governor said it must go beyond knowledge acquisition to building character and responsible citizenship.
He noted that Prof Mahanta’s progressive and democratic ideals remain highly relevant in today’s context.
Referring to Assam’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, he recalled the teachings of Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdev, stating that their legacy continues to shape the state’s intellectual and cultural identity.
Highlighting the theme “India @100”, the Governor said it reflects the country’s collective aspiration to become a developed nation by 2047.
He stressed the importance of inclusive development, equal opportunities and youth empowerment in achieving this vision.
He further underscored the significance of initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India in strengthening self-reliance and fostering innovation.
The Governor noted that Assam, with its natural resources and dynamic youth population, has a key role to play in the country’s growth trajectory.
Encouraging young people to embrace technology, he said emerging sectors such as startups and artificial intelligence will be critical drivers of future progress.
He also appreciated the growing contribution of women across various fields.
The memorial lecture was delivered by C Raj Kumar on the theme “India@100: Shaping a Future through Education, Justice and Technology”.
Michael D Wilson also addressed the gathering.
Among others present were Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, DGP Harmeet Singh, Advocate General Debajit Saikia, Vice Chancellor of Royal Global University Dr. A.K. Pansari, Mina Mahanta, and several dignitaries.






