The National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL), Ranchi, celebrated the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm at the University campus on Saturday. 

The celebrations brought together the Chief Guest, faculty members, officers, staff and students to commemorate the nation's freedom and reflect on the values of the Constitution.

The programme commenced with flag hoisting by the Chief Guest, Brigadier Manoj Kumar Jha, Commander, 61 Infantry Brigade, followed by a plantation drive. The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor and other dignitaries thereafter proceeded to the Plenary Hall, where the formal programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.

The Chief Guest was felicitated by the University, followed by the Welcome Address by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, who highlighted the significance of Independence Day and the responsibility of educational institutions in strengthening constitutional democracy.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice-Chancellor said that Independence Day is not merely an occasion to remember 15 August 1947, but also an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of freedom and the responsibilities it places upon citizens. He emphasised that, as a National Law University, NUSRL's role extends beyond producing legal professionals to nurturing citizens committed to justice, dignity, equality and constitutional values.

The Vice Chancellor highlighted the University's efforts to connect legal education with social realities through legal aid, outreach programmes, policy engagement and community-based initiatives. 

He particularly referred to the University's village adoption initiatives undertaken in collaboration with the Azim Premji Foundation and the work of the Centre for Labour Laws, which seeks to strengthen access to rights and justice for vulnerable sections of society.

Reflecting on India's freedom struggle, he noted that several prominent leaders of the national movement were lawyers who viewed law as an instrument of social and national transformation. He called upon students to uphold constitutional values, remain informed and engaged citizens, and recognise that “the law is at its strongest when it serves the weakest.”

Addressing the students, the Vice-Chancellor said that future lawyers, judges, policymakers and leaders would carry the responsibility of protecting constitutional principles and ensuring that the freedoms secured by previous generations are strengthened and passed on to future generations.

Brigadier Manoj Kumar Jha Calls for Discipline, Big Dreams and Nation Building
Addressing the gathering, Brigadier Manoj Kumar Jha, Commander, 61 Infantry Brigade, expressed his happiness at being invited to celebrate Independence Day with the students of NUSRL. He remarked that this was his first opportunity to interact with law students in such a setting and said that the occasion was particularly meaningful.

Brigadier Jha emphasised that nation-building is not the responsibility of the armed forces alone; every citizen has an important role to play in building the nation. He spoke about the importance of discipline in personal and professional life and shared experiences from his own journey with the students.

Encouraging the students to pursue excellence, he stressed that success begins with the courage to dream big, but dreams must be accompanied by sustained hard work, dedication and discipline. He urged the students to set ambitious goals and work consistently towards achieving them.

Brigadier Jha also highlighted the career opportunities available to law graduates in the Indian Army, encouraging NUSRL students to consider serving the nation through opportunities within the armed forces.

The programme also featured cultural presentations by NUSRL students, including a group song, group dance and thematic skit, reflecting patriotism, national unity and the responsibilities of citizens.

The formal programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks by the Assistant Registrar (I/C), followed by the National Anthem and a group photograph.

The Independence Day celebration at NUSRL reaffirmed the University's commitment to constitutional values, responsible citizenship and the creation of future legal professionals dedicated to justice, public service and nation-building.