The author is an alumnus of the new <keyword id="20680274" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nalanda-University" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Nalanda University" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Nalanda University">Nalanda University</keyword>’s School of Ecology and Environmental Studies - class of 2017. It was a misty monsoon morning when I stepped out of the then-domestic airport of Patna in August 2015. Though I was one of the 50+ students of the second-ever batch, the university had arranged a cab. That was my first glimpse of Nalanda University caring for its students, attempting to build a strong foundation for a marvellous future reminiscent of its past glory. When I reached our hostel in <keyword id="6383384" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rajgir" source="Orion">Rajgir</keyword>, it was already afternoon. But the monsoon clouds and the lush, green background of the famous Rajgir Hills gave a serene feel to the makeshift campus. A town with immense historical and spiritual significance, Rajgir is enveloped by hot springs and vibrant vegetation that offer a tranquil retreat. So, my initial days were absolute bliss, reminiscing Nalanda's glorious Vedic and Buddhist past. On Wednesday, June 19, 2024, as Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword> inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University, close to the site of the ancient ruins of Nalanda in Rajgir, it brought back all the memories of my graduation days at the university. Once considered the greatest centre of learning in the ancient world, Nalanda University was established in the 5th century during the Gupta Empire. It hosted renowned pilgrims like Xuanzang and Yijing, who spread the knowledge originating from Nalanda to the nooks and corners of East Asia. The institution thrived as Nalanda Mahavihara, a Buddhist monastery, under the Pala Empire between the 8th to 12th centuries. After flourishing for almost 800 years, it slowly receded into the shadows of history, its downfall triggered by the attack from Afghan invaders. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Revival of the Nalanda dream" comment="subhead" text="Revival of the Nalanda dream">Revival of the Nalanda dream</cmsannotation> The dream of reviving the university was an undying aspiration for the people in the Nalanda region of Bihar as well as the enthusiasts of Buddhist history. The idea of a multi-national collaborative institution was first proposed by the former President of India A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and <keyword id="22109987" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nobel-Laureate-Amartya-Sen" source="keywords">Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen</keyword>, who served as the first chancellor of the new university. The university was established by the Parliament of India through the Nalanda University Act of 2010, to implement the decisions of the East Asia Summit (EAS) for establishing an “international institution for the pursuit of intellectual, philosophical, historical and spiritual studies”. The University started its functioning in 2014 from a makeshift location in Rajgir town with less than 20 students. The construction of the new campus started in 2017, conceptualised to be the first large-scale net-zero campus in India. Being an international university, it has been hosting students from over a dozen different regions like Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and even Europe and Africa. "Nalanda is more than just a name, it's a mantra, an identity, a declaration that books might get destroyed in fire, but knowledge persists. The revival of Nalanda will mark the beginning of the <keyword id="22109988" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Golden-Age-of-India" source="keywords">Golden Age of India</keyword>," <keyword id="19899320" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="PM-Modi" source="keywords">PM Modi</keyword> said on Wednesday. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Look back — early years at Nalanda" comment="subhead" text="Look back — early years at Nalanda">Look back — early years at Nalanda</cmsannotation> As a student in the second batch, my decision to move from Bengaluru to Bihar raised several eyebrows back home. But it took only a few days for me to realise that it was the right decision! <div type="image" title="Nalanda: The new campus" agency="PTI" msid="111115479" hostid="261" sizebytes="112806" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The new campus of Nalanda University (@narendramodi / PTI)&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Initial days were not without their challenges, the makeshift buildings lacked several basic amenities. Lack of access to sufficient healthcare facilities was a major challenge for many students. Safety was another prime concern as we were advised not to step out of the institute’s premises beyond sunset. The commute was a challenge, and we had to depend entirely on the university’s shuttle services. The town lacked safe and hygienic food outlets and places to shop or even hang out. But it was worth it! When I joined the university, only two schools were operational — Historical Studies and Ecology and Environmental Studies. Despite infrastructural challenges, the university managed to put together an excellent faculty group. The curriculum was insightful, to say the least. The interdisciplinary nature of learning exposed us to knowledge from several distinct fields. Participatory and explorative learning modules helped us engage more with the topics rather than just reading about them. Even the atmosphere among the students was highly energetic and inspiring, at least in the beginning. Most students played different sports with limited facilities almost every single day, and we routinely visited nearby cities like Patna and historic sites like <keyword id="115344" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nalanda-ruins" source="Orion">Nalanda ruins</keyword>, Buddhist monasteries, Shanti Stupa, Bodh Gaya, Rajgir Hills and more. However, by the time we reached the second half of our two-year coursework, we started to see a few cracks in our Nalanda dream. Allegations of sexual harassment and administrative apathy towards the needs of the students plagued our stay during the last two semesters. The quality of the teaching faculty also dropped as not many renowned professors would agree to work from such a remote location. Overall, I found my time at Nalanda extremely enjoyable, enlightening(!), and also challenging in various ways. I witnessed the struggles of establishing a world-class university in a remote and economically disadvantaged area. I also understood how political will and competent leadership can build institutions to great heights, while a few oversights can throw umpteen hurdles in our path to glory. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="A hope for the future" comment="subhead" text="A hope for the future">A hope for the future</cmsannotation> Today, the University offers postgraduate and doctoral research courses to over 200 students every year, over 75% of whom are international students. This is in contrast to what we witnessed during our batch when over 75% of students were from India alone. The campus has been turned into a hub of sustainable practices, with 100 acres of water bodies and a 6.5 MW on-grid solar plant. A Library with a capacity to hold 3 Lakh Books is scheduled to be completed later this year. During our first convocation ceremony in 2016, former President Pranab Mukherjee addressed us and said, “Universities must be the bastions of free speech and expression. It must be the arena where diverse and conflicting schools of thought contend. There should be no room for intolerance, prejudice and hatred within the spaces of this institution. Further, it must act as a flag bearer for the coexistence of multiple views, thoughts and philosophies.” As the Nalanda dream takes shape and captures our country's imagination today, thousands of people like me who have been a part of this glorious journey are hoping that our beloved seat of learning realises this vision to be a bastion of free and independent thinking and an inspiration for peace and progress, from India to the world!

Nalanda diaries: A 2017 alumnus' reverie as PM Modi inaugurates the historic Nalanda University

<keyword id="6358805" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Patna" source="Orion">Patna</keyword>, the capital city of Bihar, India, is steeped in history and culture, offering a plethora of attractions for travelers to explore. From ancient archaeological sites to vibrant markets and serene parks, Patna has something to offer to every visitor. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, here are <keyword id="20647986" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ten-must-visit-places" source="Orion">ten must-visit places</keyword> in Patna to add to your itinerary when exploring Patna: <keyword id="53042" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Patna-Museum" source="Orion">Patna Museum</keyword>: The Patna Museum, also known as the Jadu Ghar, is a treasure trove of artifacts showcasing <keyword id="20647990" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bihars-rich-heritage" source="Orion">Bihar's rich heritage</keyword>. Founded in 1917, this museum houses an extensive collection of sculptures, coins, paintings, and artifacts dating back to ancient times. Highlights include the Didarganj Yakshi, a life-size terracotta statue from the Mauryan period, and the fossilized tree trunk from the Rajgir hills. Golghar: Built by Captain John Garstin in 1786, Golghar is an iconic <keyword id="20647989" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="landmark-in-Patna" source="Orion">landmark in Patna</keyword>. This massive granary was constructed to store grains during times of famine, but today it offers panoramic views of the cityscape and the Ganges River from its top. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to reach the viewing platform and admire the surrounding scenery. Mahatma Gandhi Setu: Spanning the Ganges River, the Mahatma Gandhi Setu is one of the longest river bridges in India, connecting Patna with Hajipur. A drive or a leisurely stroll across this bridge offers breathtaking views of the river and the bustling activity along its banks. Watching the sunset from the bridge is a mesmerizing experience not to be missed. Mahavir Mandir: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Mahavir Mandir is one of the most revered <keyword id="20647987" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="temples-in-Patna" source="Orion">temples in Patna</keyword>. This temple attracts thousands of devotees every day who come to seek blessings and offer prayers. The temple's imposing architecture and serene ambiance make it a must-visit spiritual destination in the city. Kumhrar: Kumhrar is an archaeological site that holds the remains of ancient Pataliputra, the capital of the Maurya and Gupta empires. Visitors can explore the excavated ruins, including the remains of ancient pillared halls, stupas, and monasteries. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Patna's rich historical legacy. Takht Sri Patna Sahib: Takht Sri Patna Sahib, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site located in Patna. It marks the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. The gurdwara's majestic architecture, serene surroundings, and religious significance make it a <keyword id="20647988" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="must-visit-place-in-Patna" source="Orion">must-visit place in Patna</keyword> for devotees and tourists alike. Patna Zoo: Spread over an expansive area, the Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, commonly known as Patna Zoo, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the zoo's lush greenery, botanical gardens, and animal enclosures housing species like lions, tigers, elephants, and rare birds. Eco Park: Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Patna Eco Park offers a serene retreat amidst nature. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, boat rides, and picnics in the park's scenic surroundings. The park also features landscaped gardens, jogging tracks, and a children's play area. Agam Kuan: Agam Kuan, meaning "unfathomable well," is an ancient archaeological site dating back to the Mauryan period. This circular well is believed to be one of the oldest and deepest in India. Legend has it that Emperor Ashoka used it as a place of torture and execution. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction surrounded by myths and mysteries. Padri Ki Haveli: Padri Ki Haveli, also known as St. Mary's Church, is one of the oldest churches in Bihar. Built in the early 18th century, this historic landmark showcases Indo-European architecture and houses beautiful stained glass windows, sculptures, and paintings. Visitors can explore the church's serene interiors and learn about its colonial-era significance. From exploring ancient archaeological sites to experiencing spiritual serenity and enjoying leisurely strolls in scenic parks, Patna offers a diverse range of attractions for travelers to discover. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking cultural immersion, these ten must-visit places in Patna promise an enriching and memorable experience.

Explore one of the oldest Indian city: 10 must-visit places in Patna with friends

(Eds: Adds inputs, corrects designation of an official in last para) Patna, Feb 22 () The Bihar government on Monday presented a Rs 2.18 lakh crore budget, with no new tax and a thrust on infrastructure and social sectors, besides giving a fillip to entrepreneurship. Presenting the revenue-surplus budget in the assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Tarkishore Prasad, who holds the finance portfolio, proposed to create a separate department for skill development and entrepreneurship. The decision would ensure better coordination for running ITIs and polytechnic colleges which are now run by the labour department and the science and technology department respectively, he said. Prasad also reaffirmed the government's promise of creating 20 lakh employment opportunities, in private and public sectors combined, by the time it completes its term in 2025, and to this end, a sum of Rs 200 crore has been allocated for the industries department. To encourage entrepreneurship, grants will be given by the government for startups which could be to the tune of 50 per cent of one's project cost or up to Rs 5 lakh in addition to loans of up to Rs five lakh at a nominal one per cent interest rate, he said. Women entrepreneurs will be given special incentives in the form of interest-free loans of up to Rs 5 lakh, he said. Prasad, who took over as Deputy CM in November last year, said in his maiden budget speech that the highest allocation of Rs 38,035.93 crore has been made for education, followed by Rs 16,835.67 crore for rural development, Rs 15,227.74 crore for roads, Rs 13,264.87 crore for health and Rs 8,560 crore for energy. The deputy chief minister said an allocation of Rs 4,671 crore was made for the second phase of 'Saat Nischay' (seven resolves) programme, implemented immediately after the Nitish Kumar-led NDA's return to power. Kumar had, in 2015, announced the first phase of Rs 2.7-lakh crore 'Saat Nischay', and promised to implement the second phase during the assembly polls. Promotion of entrepreneurship, enhancement of skill, improvement of irrigation facilities, strengthening of health infrastructure, better connectivity and development of clean and prosperous villages and cities are some of the components of the seven resolves. Addressing a press conference after presenting the budget, Prasad said, "We have not imposed any new tax. We have presented a budget of Rs 2,18,302.70 crore for 2021-22, which is Rs 6,541.21 crore more than the current year's estimates of Rs 2,11,761.49 crore. The revenue surplus is estimated at Rs 9,195.90 crore." The state's fiscal deficit has been estimated at Rs 22,510.78 crore in the budget, which is 2.97 per cent of the Gross State Domestic Product, estimated at Rs 7,57,026 crore, the deputy CM said. "We have kept the fiscal deficit target within the three per cent limit," he said. Lauding the "balanced" budget, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said in a statement that it has been prepared, keeping in mind the interests of all sections of people in the society. He also expressed confidence that the budget will keep up the growth momentum in the state, which has witnessed double-digit annual growth rates since 2004-05. Other highlights of the budget include proposals for setting up of universities devoted to imparting higher learning in medical, engineering and sports. Rajgir, one of the state's most popular tourist destinations, has been proposed as the site for the sports university besides an international cricket stadium and sports academy, Prasad said. He also announced that solar street light will be installed in village roads under the second phase of "Saat Nischay" scheme for which Rs 150 crore has been allocated in 2021-22. He declined to comment when asked whether the state government will consider a proposal to lower sales tax on petrol and diesel to provide relief to the people. Responding to a query if the government will make any proposal to bring the petroleum products under the GST regime, principal secretary, finance, S Siddhartha, who was present at the press conference interjected, saying "we are not taking up any such suggestion for discussion." AR NAC BDC BDC

Bihar govt presents Rs 2.18 lakh crore budget, no new tax, impetus to entrepreneurship

Bihar election 2020 result- checkout winner candidate list

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/30725894.cms" />PATNA: If you have an internet-enabled device and you are anywhere on the stretch from NIT-Patna on Ashok Rajpath to Danapur, you can now access the internet free of cost. 
 Once known as a backward state, <keyword id="30033" type="COMPANY" weightage="40" keywordseo="Bihar">Bihar</keyword> has made a strong bid for a mention on the world's infotech map as <keyword id="5269" type="POSITION" weightage="40" keywordseo="Chief-Minister">chief minister</keyword> <keyword id="6358190" type="PERSON" weightage="40" keywordseo="Nitish-Kumar">Nitish Kumar</keyword> unveiled the 20km <keyword id="6403839" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Free-Wi-Fi">free Wi-Fi</keyword> zone, the longest across the globe, at a function christened e-Bihar summit in Patna on Wednesday. Kumar also unveiled a 'city surveillance and dial 100' scheme under which at least 100 CCTV cameras installed in different localities of the state capital became operational. A state data centre has also been opened for storing of the 'data' collected by these cameras. 
 
Speaking on the occasion, CM Kumar announced an IT City would be developed on a 200-acre plot at Rajgir. He also said the government has in principle approved an infotech building on a plot of one lakh sq ft and another on a plot of 5 lakh sq ft in Patna. Besides, an infotech park is coming up on the outskirts of the city. 
 Kumar asked the information technology department officials to hold roadshows in select cities across the country to <keyword id="54921" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="40" keywordseo="spread">spread</keyword> awareness about the progress made by Bihar in the field of information technology. "Our state should now be the IT industry's fave destination," he said. 
 The state's free <keyword id="47655" type="TECHNOLOGY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Wi-Fi">Wi-Fi</keyword> zone is the longest in the world since China's 3.5km zone was treated as the longest so far. The 'city surveillance and dial 100' project is first of its kind in the country as it integrates the surveillance of the city, vehicle tracking and dial 100 control centre schemes. An automated number plate recognition system has been installed on 11 roads, which will automatically note the registration number of the vehicles entering and exiting the city. "It was with this surveillance system's help that the Patna police rescued the son of a city-based trader from Ara within 24 hours of his kidnapping recently," CM Kumar said. 
 IT minister Shahid Ali Khan said free Wi-Fi facility would be provided at all the tourist spots in the state. Principal secretary (IT) N K Sinha said Bihar might be a late entrant to this sector but "we are on the cusp of IT revolution". <keyword id="6372077" type="CITY" weightage="40" keywordseo="Nasscom">Nasscom</keyword> president R Chandrashekhar and Beltron MD Atul Sinha were among those who also spoke at the e-Bihar event.

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Nalanda diaries: A 2017 alumnus' reverie as PM Modi inaugurates the historic Nalanda University

Deekshith Pinto

Explore one of the oldest Indian city: 10 must-visit places in Patna with friends

BI India Bureau

Bihar govt presents Rs 2.18 lakh crore budget, no new tax, impetus to entrepreneurship

PTI

Bihar election 2020 result- checkout winner candidate list

BI India Bureau

World's Longest Free Wi-Fi Zone In Patna, India

Times Of India