During the Amrut Mahotsav program at Karnatak University in Dharwad, Karnataka, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stressed the significance of lifelong learning for leading an active and meaningful life. He commemorated the 75th birth anniversary of renowned mathematician Prof HB Walikar, acknowledging the rich scientific legacy of India, which includes notable figures like Charaka, Srinivasa Ramanujan, APJ Abdul Kalam, and Vikram Sarabhai. Joshi pointed out that despite historical disruptions, India has made significant contributions to global scientific knowledge, particularly in mathematics, which underpins all research.

State law minister HK Patil echoed these sentiments but expressed serious concerns regarding the state of universities in Karnataka, revealing that around 14,000 faculty positions remain unfilled and that student enrollment has plummeted by 45% over the last three years. Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar cautioned against the unplanned establishment of universities, warning that it could lead to financial and academic difficulties. He advocated for world-class universities and the importance of keeping politics out of education, suggesting that honorary doctorates should be awarded to those who have made societal contributions.