Delhi has always embodied the spirit of India as a diverse, resilient, dynamic and aspirational city, said Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Friday while addressing a session at Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Speaking on the theme “Reimagining Delhi is a Shared Responsibility”, Sandhu emphasised the need to transform the national capital from a political centre to a future-ready global city. Outlining his vision for Delhi’s development, Sandhu identified five key pillars — sustainability, inclusion, culture, innovation & growth and compassion.
He stressed that environmental concerns must be addressed with urgency, highlighting air pollution, Yamuna river rejuvenation, restoration of water bodies, effective waste management, sustainable mobility and expansion of green cover as critical priorities for the city’s future. On inclusion, Sandhu said Delhi’s growth must create equal opportunities and accessible spaces for women, youth, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, migrant workers, entrepreneurs, artists, students and other vulnerable communities.
“The task before us is not easy,” he said, pointing to challenges such as rapid urbanisation, environmental stress, population growth, mobility issues and resource management. He underscored the need for coordinated action involving institutions, policymakers and citizens alike.
“Reimagining Delhi is a shared responsibility. Let’s work together to build a Delhi that is environmentally conscious, culturally vibrant, economically dynamic, technologically progressive and deeply humane,” added the L-G.
An alumnus of JNU’s School of International Studies, Sandhu described his return to the campus as a deeply personal experience. “This is not just an academic space. It’s a place where ideas were shaped, perspectives were challenged and some of the most formative years of my life unfolded,” he said.
Reflecting on Delhi’s cultural identity, Sandhu noted that modernisation must not come at the cost of preserving the city’s historical and civilisational legacy. He also acknowledged JNU’s role in shaping his worldview, encouraging critical thinking and deepening his understanding of society and global affairs.
JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit highlighted the reforms and institutional developments undertaken during her tenure, noting that JNU alumni continued to make significant contributions globally in academia, diplomacy, administration and public service. She also outlined the university’s “10 D’s” framework, including development, decency, diversity, debate, discussion, deliberation, dharma and democracy, and reiterated the administration’s commitment to maintaining a violence-free campus.
