Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel addressed the convocation ceremony at AKTU in Lucknow, where she expressed serious concerns regarding youth opting to run away from home for marriage. She noted that many young couples choose to elope due to the fear of their families, which often leads to complex and difficult life circumstances later. Highlighting the social reality, she stated that when these young women become pregnant, the resulting children are often rejected by society and family members alike, forcing these children into state-run childcare homes.
The Importance of Open Communication
Sharing an anecdote from her personal life, the Governor advised students to maintain transparency with their families. She recounted that when her own son went to Bengaluru for his studies, she had clearly told him to inform her if he liked someone, promising that she would gladly support his marriage. She urged the students to follow a similar path of honesty rather than making impulsive decisions that could jeopardize their future.
Focusing on Self-Reliance
Addressing the students, Governor Anandiben Patel clarified that she is not against love marriage, but she strictly emphasized the need for financial stability before tying the knot. She advised young people to prioritize their education and establish a stable career first. According to her, becoming self-reliant is a fundamental prerequisite before entering into the commitments of married life, as rash decisions can often lead to regret.
Utility and Design Standards in Infrastructure
During the event, the Governor also criticized the poor planning of construction projects within colleges and universities. She highlighted that utility is often ignored in favor of design. For instance, she pointed out that in many Anganwadi centers, water taps and toilets are installed at heights that make them inaccessible to small children. Furthermore, light switches in rooms are often placed in impractical locations. She issued strict instructions to the university administration to ensure that future construction projects prioritize user-friendliness and quality. Additionally, she directed the authorities to install modern kitchens and RO water purification plants in student hostels.
