The Kautilya School of Public Policy (KSPP) celebrated its 4thGraduation Ceremony on Friday, April 10, 2026, at GITAM Deemed to be University, Hyderabad. The ceremony began with a traditional academic procession, setting a dignified tone for the occasion.
The event was graced by Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog and India’s G20 Sherpa, as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he encouraged the graduating cohort to contribute meaningfully to public policy and governance, emphasizing innovation, integrity, and nation-building.
Highlighting the importance of grassroots governance, Shri Kant urged students to engage with states and districts, which are central to India’s federal structure. He stressed the need to transform India into a global manufacturing hub by increasing its manufacturing share and reducing the cost of doing business.
Emphasizing “Jan Vishwas” (public trust), he noted that strengthening trust and improving business conditions are vital for boosting exports and enhancing India’s global competitiveness.He also underscored the importance of improving agricultural productivity, noting that nearly 46 percent of India’s population depends on agriculture. He encouraged graduates to benchmark India’s agricultural and industrial performance against global standards.
Calling for a strong innovation ecosystem, Shri Kant urged students to promote research and development, support startups, and enable access to risk capital. He highlighted India’s ambition to evolve into a $30 trillion economy, stating that young professionals will play a pivotal role in achieving this vision.
Reflecting on India’s progress, he cited rapid advancements in infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital public infrastructure, including leadership in digital payments and large-scale public service delivery such as COVID-19 vaccinations. He emphasized the transformative potential of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, healthcare, and nutrition.
Describing the present as “India’s decade,” Shri Kant pointed to the country’s demographic advantage and urged graduates to remain optimistic, innovative, and committed to nation-building.
The ceremony was formally inaugurated with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. M. Sri Bharat, President of GITAM, congratulated the graduates and felicitated the Chief Guest in his presidential address. PrateekKanwal introduced the Chief Guest.
President’s and Memorial Gold Medal to Abhijeet Sudhir Raut (Two medals)
Prof. D. S. Rao administered the pledge proceedings by handing over the oath to student representative Sehzana Contractor. A total of 35 students were conferred their degrees, along with merit medals recognizing academic excellence.
AbhijeetSudhirRaut was awarded the President’s Gold Medal for securing the first rank in the Master’s Programme in Public Policy, while Simran Kaur received the Dean’s Gold Medal for Best Capstone Project. The YanamandraMallikarjuna Rao Memorial Gold Medal was jointly awarded to AbhijeetSudhirRaut and Amal Shukla.
Dr. D. Gunasekaran presented the degree records for signing to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Errol D’Souza. The graduation address was delivered by student representative Anushka Sharma, while Dr.VasudhaKatju proposed the vote of thanks. Syed Akbaruddin also participated in the ceremony.
The event marked a significant milestone for the graduating class as they embark on their professional journeys in public policy and governance.
