DYPIU Marks New Academic Journey with Visionary ‘Diksharambh’ Induction Programme
PUNE: D Y Patil International University (DYPIU), Pune, officially kicked off the 2026–27 academic year with its signature induction programme, Diksharambh. Designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and the university’s rigorous academic environment, the event served as a vibrant introduction to the institution’s core values, vision, and commitment to holistic higher education.
The ceremony featured a stellar lineup of speakers who shared insights on the evolving landscape of global technology, the humanities, and personal development.
The Art of Life and Learning
The highlight of the induction was an address by Padma Vibhushan awardee and former Rajya Sabha member Sonal Mansingh. Drawing from her illustrious career as a classical dancer, she offered students a unique perspective on achieving success.
“Balance and harmony are key words in life,” said Mansingh, emphasizing that true all-round development is only possible through a sense of “perfect harmony and unison.” Sharing her personal journey, she encouraged students to pursue their passions with unwavering dedication and to inject rasa (essence/emotion) into everything they undertake. She also made a poignant case for integrating the humanities into STEM-heavy curriculums, arguing that a well-rounded education is essential for future leaders.
India’s Golden Era for Youth
Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder and Chairman of EKA Mobility, resonated with the audience by highlighting the unprecedented potential for young people in India today. Challenging the students to develop a “fire in the belly,” Dr. Mehta urged them to focus on self-actualization and determination. He lauded the D Y Patil Group for its enduring legacy in building the country’s educational infrastructure.
Innovation and Future Expansion
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Manish Bhalla reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and incubation. He emphasized the institution’s primary goal: to prepare graduates to be “job creators, not just job seekers.”
The university’s growth trajectory remains ambitious. Prof. Bhalla announced the launch of the School of Legal Studies, Governance and Public Policy for the current academic year, with further plans to introduce a comprehensive department for Hotel Management and Catering Technology in the coming year.
Shri Tejas Patil, Trustee of DYP Pratishthan, added that the university remains dedicated to providing a globally connected environment, moving beyond traditional rote learning to focus on experiential and innovative pedagogical practices.
Navigating the AI Revolution
The induction programme extended into a second day, featuring Neeraj Kansal, Chief Commissioner of Central GST and Customs (Pune Zone). Addressing the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, Kansal offered pragmatic advice to the incoming cohort. He urged students to engage with AI as active, critical thinkers rather than passive consumers, noting that while the technology will inevitably displace certain roles, it will simultaneously serve as a catalyst for a new wave of emerging career opportunities.
The event, which saw participation from the Deans of various faculties and university leadership, sets a high benchmark for the academic session, grounding students in both the technological realities of the future and the timeless wisdom of the past.
