PUNE: Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune (Deemed to be University) celebrated its 17th Convocation Ceremony with great enthusiasm at its campus in Pimpri.Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of Communications and Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. P. D. Patil, Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune.During the ceremony, the honorary degree of Doctor of Science was conferred upon two distinguished personalities for their outstanding contribution to medical education, healthcare, research and institutional development. Dr. (Brig.) Amarjit Singh (Retd.), a distinguished physician, decorated military officer, academician and institution builder, Former Officiating Vice Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune and Former Dean, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, was honoured for his remarkable service. Dr. A. L. Kakrani, eminent professor in the field of medicine and Director, Academic Collaborations, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, was also honoured for his significant contribution to healthcare, academics and research.As part of the convocation ceremony, 30 meritorious students from various faculties were felicitated with gold medals for their outstanding academic performance. A total of 18,720 students from nine faculties were awarded degrees and diplomas. This included 48 Ph.D. scholars, 16,752 postgraduate students, 1,905 undergraduate students and 15 diploma students.Speaking on the occasion, Scindia, said, “As I look at the graduating students in their capes and gowns today, I see the future builders of Viksit Bharat 2047. A convocation is not an ending; it is the commencement of the rest of your life. The education, values and experiences you have received at Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune will give you the confidence to take decisions, face change and contribute meaningfully to the nation.“India stands at a defining moment, with immense opportunities in healthcare, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship. I urge each one of you to think beyond employment and think of impact. Take risks, keep learning, stay connected to your institution and remember the contribution of your parents and teachers who have shaped this journey. Build something meaningful for yourself, build something for others and most importantly, build something for Mother India,” he said.Patil, said, “The convocation ceremony is a proud moment for the entire Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth family. Since its inception in 2003, the Vidyapeeth has grown into a multidisciplinary institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, healthcare service and social responsibility. Our progress has been guided by the vision of creating an educational environment that is rooted in Indian values while meeting global standards. I congratulate all the graduating students who receive their degrees today. As they step into their professional lives, I urge them to keep improving their capability, expanding their capacity and using their knowledge to serve society with sincerity and purpose.”The ceremony was attended by Bhagyashree P. Patil, Pro Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Smita Jadhav, Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri and Secretary, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Society, Pune among others.