By IANS,
Aligarh : Former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who was Wednesday conferred an honorary doctorate by the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), said he hoped there would be no urban-rural divide in India by 2020 and everyone will have equal access to necessities like water and energy.
Kalam and Wipro Technologies Ltd chairman Azim Premji were conferred an honorary degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) at the 58th convocation of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
On the occasion, Kalam said he dreamt that by 2020 India would be a nation “where the rural and urban divide has reduced to a thin line, and there is an equitable distribution and adequate access to energy and quality water”.
Agriculture, industry and service sectors working together in symphony and non-denial of education because of societal or economic discrimination are also part of Kalam’s dreams. He also hoped the best of healthcare would be provided to everyone by a responsive, transparent and corruption-free government.
Kalam called upon the youth to make an integrated effort for the development of the country.
“An ignited young mind is the most powerful resource on the earth, above the earth and under the earth,” he said.
Thanking the university for the degree, Premji said he got this recognition because of the 100,000-strong Wipro team.
Advising students to work hard, he said: “A rupee earned is far more valuable than five found. One should not fear losing and mistakes are painful when they happen. However, there is always a key for a lock and god will not give us problems without solutions.”
Over 150 students from various faculties of the university were also awarded degrees and medals by Vice Chancellor P.K. Abdul Aziz.