KATRA: The 32nd meeting of the Governing Council of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul, Charan Paduka was held here today at its academic premises at Charan Paduka, Katra. The meeting presided by Mahamandleshwar Shri Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Member of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and Chairman of the Governing Council for the Gurukul, was attended by Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shrine Board; Alok Kumar Maurya, Additional CEO; Padma Shri Prof. Vishwamurti Shastri, Pawan Kumar, Controller of Examination, CSU; Satish Kumar Sharma, Joint CEO, SMVDSB and Administrator of Gurukul; Mahesh Sharma, FA/Chief Accounts Officer; Gopal Dass Sharma, Head Pujari, Bhawan; Dr Dhananjay Mishra, Principal; and Dr. Devendra Rijal, Vice Principal of the Gurukul. The Chairman and other Members of the Governing Council while expressing satisfaction regarding over-the-year growth of the institution and its functioning emphasized the need for making continuing endeavors to develop it as a centre of excellence. The Chairman desired that a 15 years roadmap be devised for future growth of Gurukul both physically and academically for comprehensive learning experiences and academic excellence. He exhorted that up-gradation of Gurukul to post graduation level be also explored aiming to further empower students with advanced knowledge and skills to excel in their chosen fields. He said that the up-gradation will not only enhance the academic reputation of SMVD Gurukul but positively contribute to the educational landscape in the region. The Chairman while reviewing outstanding achievements of the students of SMVD Gurukul in academics and co-curricular activities underscored that the students must prepare for annual activities diligently in advance, aligning with the curriculum not only to attain optimal outcomes but also for their holistic development. The meeting also noted participation of faculty and students at different Platforms, including in-house events & those at State, Zonal as well as at National Level. The Governing Council, while approving the annual budget of Gurukul for financial year 2024-25 also concurred with the projected need for expansion of residential and academic blocks of SMVD Gurukul. This decision would address the future residential and academic requirements of the students after enhancement of their intake capacity from 20 to 30 students from the session 2023-24. After extensive deliberations the Governing Council also resolved to take further strides of expansion in alignment with NAAC accreditations. On the occasion, the Chairman, SMVD Gurukul also inaugurated 08 Smart Classrooms and a Computer Lab. While acknowledging the significant contribution made by the J&K Bank under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative for establishing Smart Classrooms and Computer Lab at SMVD Gurukul, he applauded the Bank’s commitment to investing in future generation underscoring that such initiative undoubtedly leaves a positive impact on the community as a whole. After the conclusion of the meeting, the Members, Governing Council also inspected the proposed site for expansion at SMVD Gurukul. Earlier, Mahamandleshwar while addressing the students and faculty highlighted the importance of imparting sanskars in one’s life, asked the students to work hard to preserve their rich culture and achieve distinction in various fields in years to come. He said that the achievement of students not only showcases their dedication and hard work but also testament to the dedication of teachers and collective success of their institution. He expressed gratitude towards the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, JK-UT who is also Chairman of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board for his patronage towards such institutions which has kept alive the Vedic and Sanatan traditions in the modern era. The Members were presented with the Rudraksha plant on the occasion
