Archive · 15 Sep 2026
Sitharaman Urges Young Graduates to Put Nation First
Nirmala Sitharaman spoke to young graduates in Chennai.
She asked them to become responsible leaders.
She told them to think about how they can help their country.
She also said they should put India’s interests first.
Sitharaman said India’s economy grew by 7.8% despite wars and supply problems around the world.
She described Tamil Nadu as a place with many technology and manufacturing jobs.
She encouraged students to stay humble, patient, and willing to learn.
More than 3,200 students received degrees at the ceremony.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged Gen Z and Gen Alpha graduates to assume leadership and prioritize national interest.
She asked young people to consider what they can contribute to India rather than what the country has done for them.
Sitharaman said India maintained macroeconomic stability and recorded 7.8% growth despite global conflicts and supply uncertainties.
She highlighted Tamil Nadu’s automotive, smartphone-export, and Global Capability Centre opportunities for young professionals.
More than 3,200 students received degrees at Dr M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute’s 36th convocation in Chennai.
- Who
- Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed graduates from Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
- What
- She urged young graduates to assume leadership, fulfill civic responsibilities, and put the nation first.
- When
- September 15, 2026.
- Where
- The 36th convocation of Dr M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
- Why
- She said young people should contribute to India, protect national interest, and help keep the country secure and strong.
- Speaker
- Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister
- Event
- 36th convocation ceremony of Dr M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute
- Graduates
- More than 3,200 candidates received degrees in medical, dental, engineering, allied health sciences, law, and management streams
- India’s growth
- Sitharaman said India recorded 7.8% growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability
- Tamil Nadu GCCs
- Tamil Nadu has 350 Global Capability Centres, about 10% of the national total
- Coimbatore GCCs
- Coimbatore has 80 Global Capability Centres employing 12,000 professionals
- Women’s workforce support
- The Union Budget provides for working women’s hostels in every district to support women pursuing STEM education
- Global uncertainty
- Sitharaman cited the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts as affecting crude oil, gas, and fertilizer supplies
