Former Chief Justice of India Justice NV Ramana at the Fifth Convocation of VIT-AP University at Inavolu in Guntur District on Saturday | Photo credit: ARRANGEMENT
Amaravati embodies the aspirations of the new Andhra Pradesh – rooted in heritage but aspiring to the future, said former Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana.
Addressing the fifth convocation of VIT-AP University held on Andhra Pradesh Formation Day, Justice Ramana reflected on the legacy of the region – from ancient Buddhist scholars to modern innovators – and paid tribute to leaders from the country who shaped modern Andhra. Their struggles, he said, paved the way for the creation of linguistic states and underscored the enduring importance of language and cultural identity.
Sharing personal memories, Justice Ramana said that the soil, air and water of Amaravati shaped him into a student, a leader and a lawyer. He recalled his youth spent around the Krishna river and said, “Whatever happens on this land affects me deeply. Amaravati still inspires me.”
Justice Ramana praised the farmers of Amaravati and described their five-year agitation as the longest protest by farmers in South India since independence. He saluted their courage, patience and faith in the “judicial system and the democratic process” and reaffirmed the constitutional right to peaceful dissent.
Thinking about the challenges, he remembered how his family was targeted and false cases were filed against them during the turbulent times. Even judges who espoused constitutional values faced pressure, he said, stressing that “institutions are tested in crisis, not in comfort.” “Governments may change, but the courts and the rule of law remain the anchors of stability,” he noted, adding that “the rule of law will only survive if people maintain public trust and refuse to give up integrity for convenience.” He urged young people not to lose faith. “You will inherit a world that punishes honesty and rewards silence, but the real strength of a democracy lies in the moral stamina of its citizens,” he said.
Rajeev Verma, Senior Director, Samsung Electronics, Bengaluru, advised the students to keep learning and adapt in an ever-changing world. “The skills and values you have imbibed on this campus will enable you to face global challenges with confidence,” he said.
VIT Founder and Chancellor G. Viswanathan expressed pride in the achievements of the Class of 2025 and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to nurture talent and foster excellence. A total of 3,117 graduates received their diplomas at the convocation. Among them, 28 students were awarded gold medals and 126 students secured ranks. Degrees awarded included: Ph.D. (114), M.Tech (5-Year Integrated Software Engineering) (72), B.Tech in Computer Science & Other Specializations (2,483), M.Tech (VLSI) (15), B.Tech in Electronics & Communication (180), B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering (43), BBA (77), B.Com (5), B.Sc (Mc.Sc), 8Chem.S. (Data Science) (56), BA LL.B (Hons.) (13), BBA LL.B (Hons.) (14) and BA (15). The event was attended by VIT Vice Presidents Sankar Viswanathan and GV Selvam, Vice Chancellor SV Kota Reddy, Registrar M. Jagadish Chandra, Dean (Academics) N. Madhusudhan Rao, Deputy Director Student Welfare Khadeer Pasha along with Deans of various schools, faculty members, staff,
Published – 01 Nov 2025 20:37 IST
