Rajgir, Bihar — On August 10, 2026, Professor Arvind Panagariya, Chancellor of Nalanda University and Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, inaugurated the Nālandā Śodha Vihāra on campus. This new research complex brings all six of the university’s active research centers under one roof to boost interdisciplinary collaboration, policy studies, and academic research.

Following the inauguration, Vice Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi welcomed students and guests at the Vishwamitralaya Auditorium, outlining future institutional plans and efforts to expand collaborative opportunities.

Addressing the gathering, Chancellor Panagariya highlighted the vital connection between education and discovery, stating, “Teaching and research are deeply interconnected and must progress hand in hand.” He encouraged students to pursue their fields with complete dedication, gain true expertise, and continuously strive for excellence through persistent effort. He also commended the Vice Chancellor for expanding the student and faculty community, while praising the university’s Sahabhāgitā initiative for its meaningful societal engagement.

The event featured an interactive Q&A session with students, alongside assurances from Shri Rudrendra Tandon, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, regarding the Ministry’s continued support for Nalanda’s international engagements.

The inauguration followed a high-level meeting on August 9, chaired by the Hon’ble Governor of Bihar, Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd.). Attended by the Chancellor, the Chief Secretary of Bihar, Secretary Tandon, Vice Chancellor Chaturvedi, and senior government officials, the meeting focused on establishing the Nalanda–Rajgir Knowledge & Innovation Campus and strengthening regional higher education ties. Afterwards, as part of the Nalanda–Lok Bhavan Lecture Series, Professor Panagariya delivered a keynote address on “State-Led Transformation: Urbanization, Jobs and Reform Agenda for India’s States.”