“Together We Can Make Our Nation Prosperous,” – Padma Bhushan Dr. Jyeshtharaj Joshi
MGM National Philosophy Conference
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar | January 8, 2026:
“Those who keep complaining or blaming circumstances never succeed in life. Only by staying positive, joyful, and action-oriented can we move forward and collectively make our nation prosperous,” said Padma Bhushan Dr. Jyeshtharaj Joshi, Chancellor of the Institute of Chemical Technology, while inaugurating a three-day national conference at MGM University.
The conference was organised jointly by MGM University and the Maharashtra Tattvajnana Parishad on the occasion of the 41st Annual Conference of the Maharashtra Philosophy Association. The inaugural ceremony was held at the Rukmini Auditorium, MGM University, in the presence of eminent academicians and thinkers from across the country.
Education, Science and Social Responsibility
Interacting with the audience, Dr. Joshi emphasised that universities across the world are working towards national prosperity through science and technology. “The true purpose of education is to create new knowledge and apply it for societal welfare. Meaningful life demands constant self-reflection and disciplined use of time. Once time is wasted, quality research cannot happen,” he stated.
He further urged the younger generation to understand social problems firsthand rather than waiting for them to be presented. “Real education begins when one enters society, identifies core issues, and works sincerely towards their solutions. Solving even a few societal problems builds public trust and gives inner satisfaction,” he added.
Philosophy and Science Are Complementary
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Aditya Abhyankar, Head of the Department of Technology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, highlighted that philosophy and science are mutually complementary. “Without philosophy and spirituality, science and technology remain incomplete. Scientific tools can help spread philosophical thought more effectively. Research thrives only where curiosity and a questioning mindset exist,” he said.
Beyond GDP: Rethinking Progress
Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh, underlined that education goes beyond knowledge acquisition. “Progress cannot be measured by GDP alone. Future benchmarks must include well-being, sustainability, dignity, and compassion. Knowledge must transform into service, and science must bow to conscience—not to weaken itself, but to attain completeness,” he remarked.
MGM University’s Commitment to Holistic Education
In his presidential address, Prof. Dr. Vilas Sapkal, Vice-Chancellor of MGM University, welcomed delegates from across India and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to holistic student development. He noted that MGM University integrates academic excellence, skill development, and value-based education, while expanding opportunities through MoUs with national and international universities for research collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by:
- Ankushrao Kadam, Chancellor, MGM University
- Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh, Former Vice-Chancellor, University of Mumbai
- Dr. Sunildatta Gavare, President, Maharashtra Tattvajnana Parishad
- Dr. Mohanrao Deshmukh, Conference President
- Dr. Aman Bagade, Executive President
- Dr. Rekha Shelke and Dr. John Chelladurai, Deans
- Dr. Rameshwar Kanse, Conference Secretary
- Faculty members, researchers, and students
The programme began with an introduction by Dr. Sunildatta Gavare, was moderated by Prof. Anita Fulwade, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Raju Sonawane.
