Bathinda: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Saturday urged students to remain humble and uphold constitutional and ethical values while navigating the rapidly evolving digital era.

Addressing the 11th convocation of Central University of Punjab through video conferencing, the CJI emphasised the importance of integrity, compassion and responsible conduct in today's technology-driven world.

He encouraged graduates to retain kindness, empathy and human values while contributing towards building an inclusive and progressive society.

While acknowledging the opportunities created by digital advancement, Justice Kant also cautioned against the ethical challenges emerging in an increasingly technology-oriented environment.

He said obtaining a degree marked the beginning of greater responsibilities towards society and the nation and advised students to remain socially conscious.

During the programme, the CJI virtually inaugurated the university's new library building, constructed over a built-up area of 31,410 square feet at an estimated cost of Rs 14.40 crore, aimed at strengthening academic and research infrastructure.

Rajeev Ahuja, Director of Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, praised the university's research culture and encouraged students to embrace innovation, research and lifelong learning.

He also advised students to avoid shortcuts in life and work towards becoming innovators and job creators contributing to the vision of a “Viksit Bharat”.

The university awarded 981 postgraduate degrees and 92 PhD degrees to students from India and abroad during the convocation. A total of 44 students were honoured with gold medals for academic excellence.

Women constituted 52.1 per cent of the postgraduate degree recipients and 61.36 per cent of the gold medallists, officials said.