The Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU), Bidar, unveiled a statue of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on its campus on July 10. The varsity organised a seminar highlighting his enduring contributions to the Constitution, social justice, and nation-building.

The programme was jointly organised by the university, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Cell, and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Teaching and Non-Teaching Employees’ Association.

Vice-Chancellor Professor K.C. Veeranna unveiled the statue in the presence of members of the university’s Board of Management, faculty, non-teaching staff, and students.

Inaugurating the technical seminar, Prof. Veeranna said Dr. Ambedkar’s vision extended far beyond drafting the Constitution, and laid the foundation for equality, education, social justice and democratic values in the country. He urged students to imbibe Ambedkar’s ideals in their lives, and uphold the constitutional values of equality, liberty and fraternity.

He observed that India’s Constitution, regarded as one of the finest in the world, was the result of Dr. Ambedkar’s farsighted leadership. He called upon every citizen to translate its principles into everyday practice.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Appagere Somashekar, Professor in the Department of Kannada at the Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi, examined Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy, his role in shaping the Indian Constitution, and the continued relevance of his ideas in contemporary society.

Describing Dr. Ambedkar as not only the chief architect of the Constitution, but also an eminent economist, journalist, intellectual and humanist, he said Dr. Ambedkar had envisioned a developed India through education and equal opportunities for all.

Venkatachala V.S., Chairperson of the SC/ST Sub-Committee and member of the Board of Management, said the seminar had been organised to familiarise the younger generation with Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals and inspire them to contribute to an inclusive society.

Songs on Dr. Ambedkar were rendered by Kumari Nagamma and her team at the beginning of the programme, which included releasing a commemorative souvenir, presentation of awards to meritorious students, and felicitation of winners of various competitions.

Several members of the university’s Board of Management, deans, faculty members, non-teaching staff and students attended the programme.