NUSRL Ranchi: Legal research is key to solving today’s challenges, says Chief Justice  

THE JHARKHAND NEWS NETWORK

Ranchi, April 26: Legal research and expert analysis are crucial to navigating the complex economic and social challenges of our time, remarked Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court and Chancellor of NUSRL Ranchi, M S Ramachandra Rao, as he addressed students and dignitaries at the university’s 16th Foundation Day celebrations on Saturday.

The event marked a significant milestone for NUSRL, celebrating its growth, achievements, and future ambitions. The celebrations were held with a blend of pride and solemnity, given the national mourning following the passing of Pope Francis.

The occasion was graced by Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan, Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri, several judges of the Jharkhand High Court, prominent lawyers, and Vice-Chancellors from the Central University of Jharkhand and Sarla Birla University.

A Journey of Growth and Ambition

Vice-Chancellor Professor (Dr) Ashok R Patil welcomed the gathering and reflected on the university’s journey so far. He outlined NUSRL’s rise in the NIRF rankings and expressed its commitment to becoming one of India’s top ten national law schools. He also acknowledged the crucial mentorship and support from Justice Rao, Justice Prasad, and Advocate General Ranjan in steering the institution towards greater heights.

Encouraging the Next Generation of Legal Professionals

Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan encouraged students to embrace opportunities in District and Sessions Courts to gain well-rounded legal experience. He praised the university’s leadership for fostering an environment of excellence and resilience.

Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad spoke warmly about the university’s formative years, recognising the challenges it had overcome and highlighting the significant role of faculty and staff in shaping its reputation. He also commended the impact of NUSRL’s Legal Aid Cell on local communities.

A Vision for Legal Excellence

In his keynote address, Chief Justice Rao emphasised the growing need for strong legal research and innovation in a rapidly changing world. He applauded NUSRL students for their notable achievements in litigation, the judiciary, and civil services, describing them as “torchbearers of a new legal era.”

Advancing Sustainability

In a major stride towards sustainable development, Chief Justice Rao inaugurated a new 200 MW solar power plant, increasing the university’s total solar energy capacity to 300 MW. A new powerhouse was also unveiled to guarantee an uninterrupted electricity supply across the campus.

A Moment of Reflection

In respect of the state mourning declared following the passing of Pope Francis, all cultural programmes were cancelled. The Foundation Day celebrations were conducted in a dignified and modest manner, honouring the solemnity of the national mood while marking the university’s achievements.

Strengthening Academic Ties and Honouring Excellence

A memorandum of understanding was signed between NUSRL Ranchi and the Central University of Jharkhand, represented by Vice-Chancellors Professor Kshiti Bhushan Das and Professor (Dr) Ashok R Patil, to foster academic collaboration and research initiatives.

As part of the celebrations, 35 students and 13 teams were felicitated for their outstanding national and international achievements. Merit and sports scholarships were awarded to 15 students, while long-serving faculty and staff members were honoured for over a decade of dedicated service.

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Registrar (I/c) Dr Jisu Ketan Pattnaik, who expressed his deep gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event.