Why is it in the news?
- Nalanda University campus was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rajgir, located 100 km from Patna and near the ruins of the ancient Nalanda Buddhist monastery.
More about the news
- The idea of reviving Nalanda was proposed by President APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006, aiming to establish an international institute of learning in partnership with select Asian countries.
- The proposal to re-establish Nalanda was endorsed at the East Asia Summit in 2007 and reiterated in 2009, with 17 countries supporting the initiative.
- The Bihar Assembly passed the Nalanda University Bill in 2010, declaring the university of “national importance” and outlining its governance structure.
Evolution into a Center of Learning
- Nalanda University welcomed its first batch of students in 2014, offering programs in Historical Studies, Ecology, and Environmental Studies.
- Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen became the first Chancellor, with the university expanding to include five schools covering various disciplines.
- By 2022, 90% of the campus construction was completed, accommodating 800 students, with plans for up to 7,500 students and teachers in the future.
| About the Campus
· The campus blends modern amenities with traditional architectural elements reminiscent of the ancient university. · With only 8% of the area built upon, the campus features water bodies, green spaces, a library, auditorium, and sports complex, promoting a sustainable and serene environment. · The campus design mirrors the architectural style of the original Nalanda ruins, with natural cooling methods and eco-friendly initiatives like water recycling plants. Nalanda Mahavira – Legacy of the Ancient Site · Nalanda Mahavira, active from the 5th to 13th century CE, was a renowned center of learning attracting scholars from various disciplines. · Seventh-century accounts by Chinese traveler Hsuan Tsang describe Nalanda as a vast institution with a large student and teacher population. · The ancient Nalanda monastery was not limited to Buddhist teachings but also offered education in Hindu philosophy, grammar, medicine, and other subjects, reflecting its diverse academic environment. · The ancient Nalanda University ruins were recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in 2016. |
