CELEBRATING REPUBLIC DAY: A PLATFORM FOR UNITY AND PROGRESS THROUGH A SPEECH COMPETITION
Speech competitions are a dynamic and integral part of the university experience, providing students with a platform to express their thoughts, ideas, and perspectives. These events serve as a catalyst for intellectual growth, encouraging participants to refine their communication skills, engage in critical thinking, and make meaningful contributions to academic discourse. In this context, speech competitions play a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded individuals who are not only adept at public speaking but also capable of presenting well-researched and thought-provoking content, contributing to their overall development.
On January 25, 2024, the Department of Optometry (AHS) held a speech competition in honor of Republic Day. This day holds a special place in the hearts of every Indian as it marks the day when our Constitution came into effect in 1950, declaring India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the principles that guide our great nation.
The theme of the speech competition focused on the values upheld by our Constitution: unity, equality, and progress. These values are not mere words but the pillars on which the foundation of our democratic republic stands tall. It is imperative that we understand the significance of these values in shaping the destiny of our nation.
The objective of this speech competition was to instill the following core principles into our students:
Unity, the first and foremost principle, is the binding force that transforms a diverse and multicultural nation like India into a harmonious entity. Our strength lies in our diversity, and it is through unity that we can overcome challenges and build a prosperous future. Let us remember that the strength of the nation lies in the unity of its people, transcending barriers of caste, creed, religion, and language.
Equality, the second guiding principle, ensures that every citizen of our nation is treated fairly and justly. It is a call to eliminate discrimination based on gender, caste, and socio-economic status. As we celebrate Republic Day, let us pledge to create a society where every individual, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities for growth and prosperity. This commitment to equality is not just a constitutional mandate; it is a moral imperative that defines our character as a nation.
Progress, the third pillar, represents our commitment to continuous growth and development as a nation. As citizens of this great republic, it is our responsibility to contribute to the progress of our nation. Through education, innovation, and hard work, we can build a future where every Indian enjoys a high quality of life. The progress we seek should be inclusive, ensuring that the benefits of development reach every corner of our diverse nation.
At IIMT, we strive to create environments that nurture holistic learning, and speech competitions stand out as beacons for fostering intellectual discourse and shaping the leaders and thinkers of tomorrow.
This speech competition was judged by a committee comprising of Prof. (Dr.) Mukesh Kumar (Dean of AHS), Mr. Muneez Raza (HoD Optometry), Ms. Chanchal (HoD MLT), Dr. Anshika, and Dr. Madhu, faculty members of AHS.
Sixteen participants from various disciplines showcased their eloquence and passion in this competition, captivating the audience. The Judging Committee faced the challenging task of evaluating performances, which led to the announcement of prize winners:
1st place went to Miss. Asfiya (3rd year BPT),
2nd place went to Miss. Tanu (1st year BPT), and
3rd place went to Mr. Ritik (3rd year BMLT).
The staff of Optometry were key supporters in making this competition successful.