At the centenary celebrations of Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), Prime Minister Narendra Modi connected with students by employing terms familiar to the younger generation. Using phrases like “OG” and “flex,” he discussed the achievements of the college’s alumni during his address. Modi remarked, “If I say it in Gen Z language, they are OG,” while celebrating the impact made by former students in various fields.

Modi’s address also included a personalised remark: “Dhurandhar na ho, lekin dhoom toh machayi hai,” which translates to “They may not be the most formidable, but they have certainly made their mark.” This statement encapsulated the essence of his message, as he praised the SRCC alumni for their contributions across politics, law, and business sectors, recalling notable figures such as former Union minister Arun Jaitley and economist Sanjeev Sanyal.

Reflecting on SRCC’s Journey

Modi took the opportunity to reflect on the college’s 100-year history, noting its origins in Daryaganj as a modest institution that has grown significantly. He expressed a sense of pride associated with the phrase, “I am from SRCC,” highlighting the college’s role in shaping generations of students. For the Prime Minister, the legacy of SRCC lies not just in its history but in the numerous influential individuals it has produced.

In recalling SRCC’s evolution, Modi underscored the college’s stature as a key player in India’s education sector. The growth of the institution symbolises its commitment to academic excellence and its enduring impact on students’ futures.

Resonating with Previous Addresses

During his speech, Modi also revisited his previous visit to SRCC in 2013, recalling how his earlier remarks continue to resonate with audiences today. He mentioned a glass analogy used in that speech, where he favoured the perspective of viewing the glass as “half full” instead of “half empty.” This viewpoint, he stated, underscores an optimistic outlook even when faced with challenges, encouraging students to discover opportunities amidst difficulties.

Furthermore, Education Minister Pralhad Joshi praised SRCC for effectively implementing the National Education Policy and highlighted the substantial expansion of higher education in India. With student enrolment reaching 4.54 crore, marking an increase of approximately one crore over the last decade, India now hosts over 2.3 lakh recognised startups, demonstrating a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Challenging the Future of Indian Companies

Shifting the discussion from SRCC’s alumni, Modi posed a broader question concerning India’s role in the global economy. He pointed out the country’s growing manufacturing capabilities, asserting that Indians are currently leading some of the world’s largest companies. This assertion prompted him to question, “Why should Indian companies not lead the world?”

For Modi, the centenary celebrations of SRCC were not merely a commemorative event but also a call to action for students. He encouraged them to contemplate their potential contributions to the future of India, framing the occasion as one for introspection and ambition.

In conclusion, the centenary celebrations provided a platform for Modi to celebrate the legacy of SRCC while instilling a sense of purpose among its current students, urging them to envision and contribute to a prosperous future for India.

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