Pune: Dr. DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune (Deemed to be University) celebrated its 17th convocation ceremony at its campus in Pimpri with great enthusiasm.Jyotraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of Communications and Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. PD Patil, Chancellor, Dr. DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune.During the ceremony, two eminent personalities were conferred with the honorary degree of Doctor of Science for their outstanding services in medical education, health care, research and institutional development. Dr. (Brig.) Amarjit Singh (Retd.), an eminent physician, military officer, educationist and institution builder, ex-officio Vice Chancellor, Dr. DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune and former Dean, Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune was honored for his outstanding services. Dr. AL Kakrani, Distinguished Professor, Department of Medicine and Director, Academic Collaborations, Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune was also honored for his outstanding contribution to healthcare, academia and research.As part of the convocation ceremony, 30 meritorious students from various faculties were awarded gold medals for their outstanding academic performance. A total of 18,720 students from nine faculties were awarded degrees and diplomas. This includes 48 Ph.D. scholars, 16,752 postgraduate students, 1,905 undergraduate students and 15 diploma students.Speaking on the occasion, Scindia said, “When I look at the graduating students today in their caps and gowns, I see the future architects of Vaksat Bharat 2047. Convocation does not end. This is the beginning of the rest of your life. The education, values and experiences you acquire at Dr. DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune will give you the confidence to take decisions, face change and make a meaningful contribution to the nation.“India stands at a pivotal moment with enormous opportunities in healthcare, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship. I urge each of you to think beyond employment and think about impact. Take risks, keep learning, stay connected to your institution and remember the support of your parents and teachers who shaped this journey. Create something meaningful for yourself, create something for others and most importantly, create something for Mother India,” he said.Patil said, “The convocation ceremony is a proud moment for the entire Dr. DY Patil Vidyapeeth family. Since its inception in 2003, the Vidyapeeth has become a multidisciplinary institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, healthcare service and social responsibility. Our growth has been guided by the vision of creating an educational environment rooted in Indian values while meeting global standards. I congratulate all the graduate students who received their degrees today. As they embark on their professional lives, I request them to continue to improve their skills, expand their capabilities and use their knowledge to serve the society with sincerity and purpose.”Bhagya Shri P Patil, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. DY Patil Vidya Peth, Pimpri, Smita Jadhav, Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr. DY Patil Vidya Peth, Pimpri and Secretary, Dr. DY Patil Vidya Peth Society, Pune and others participated in the function.