Hyderabad, April 6 (RAHNUMA): Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University hosted a lecture on “Role of Jagjivan Ram in Development of Modern India” as part of its ‘Social Empowerment Week’, highlighting the enduring legacy of former Deputy Prime Minister and Dalit leader late Babu Jagjivan Ram.
BRAOU Vice-Chancellor Prof Ghanta Chakrapani described Jagjivan Ram as a champion of social justice whose life continues to inspire future generations. He credited the veteran leader with laying key foundations for India’s development and noted his role in expanding aviation as a mass transport system. He also announced new initiatives, including free education under “Samata Fellowships” for Adivasis and transgender individuals, he noted.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof Chintakindi Kaseem, Principal, University College of Arts& Social Sciences, Osmania University, called Jagjivan Ram a towering figure of India’s “golden era” of politics, who relentlessly fought caste discrimination and worked for the upliftment of marginalized communities. He highlighted the late leader’s role in land reforms and policy decisions aimed at social equity, while noting that structural inequalities persist without deeper societal change. Prof. Khaseem called upon everyone to take Jagjivan Ram as an inspiration and strive for the upliftment of the marginalized sections of society.
Registrar L. Vijaya Krishna Reddy emphasized the ideals of Jagjivan Ram, B. R. Ambedkar and Jyotirao Phule who remain vital for building an inclusive society.
Dr. Banoth Dharma, the Liaison Officer for the SC/ST Cell, explained the significance of organizing this event. Prof. Sudha Rani, Prof. Anand Pawar, Prof. Rabindranath Solomon, Prof. Pallavi, Prof. Vaddanam Srinivas, and Prof. Prameela Kethavat, All Directors, Deans, Heads of Branches, Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff Members, representatives of service associations participated in the program.
