IIT Alumnus Vijay Rana Inspires Himachali Students at Shining Star Awards
Vijay Rana's Inspiring Address at NIT Hamirpur
S Gopal Puri
Hamirpur: Vijay Rana, an aerospace engineer and notable graduate of IIT Kharagpur, has made his way from Delhi to the scenic hills of Himachal Pradesh to pursue his passion for teaching. On Saturday, he captivated a full auditorium at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Hamirpur, during the esteemed "Shining Star Awards" ceremony.
This event celebrated outstanding students who achieved over 90% in their Class 10 and 12 examinations, drawing an audience of more than 1,200, including enthusiastic parents, educators, and students. The ceremony was honored by the presence of Member of Parliament and Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, who served as the Chief Guest, while Vijay Rana was among the distinguished speakers.
In his heartfelt address, Rana encouraged students to focus on education in government institutions post-Class 12, highlighting their credibility and quality. His message extended beyond academics, emphasizing the importance of values and life choices. He stated, “The pressure to fit in with peers can be overwhelming, but never jeopardize your future by engaging in drugs or illegal activities. Your mind is your greatest asset — safeguard it.”
Having contributed to national-level projects in the aerospace industry, Rana's transition to education has inspired many in the area. He now dedicates his efforts to mentoring students, particularly in STEM disciplines, with the goal of connecting global scientific advancements to local educational opportunities.
The "Shining Star Awards," organized by a prominent media group in Himachal Pradesh, aims to honor academic excellence and create a platform for achievers to be recognized and motivated by leaders from various fields. This initiative has garnered appreciation for enhancing student morale and fostering a culture of discipline, ambition, and service.
Rana’s impactful message resonated with both students and parents, reinforcing that true success is not solely measured by grades but by making informed choices rooted in knowledge, discipline, and purpose.