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Google cannot replace Guru, VP's pep talk to grads
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday hailed Google but said it can never replace a 'Guru' or teacher.
Delivering his address at the 12th convocation of Malviya National Institute of Technology in Jaipur, he advised students to work with the community and be rooted in their traditions. "When old and new combines, gold is created. Students should assist smart city projects and share ideas with panchayat offices," he exhorted.
Speaking on the role of teachers, Naidu said, "Google is good but it cannot replace Guru. Even for operating Google we need a Guru. No one can substitute the importance of a teacher in the life of a pupil."
Naidu also noted that Britishers and Mughals attacked India and destroyed its economy. "They looted our country; before their attacks 27% of the world GDP came from India. The Britishers treated us like servants and corrupted our minds through Macaulay's system of education. However, India has never attacked any country; we are one of the tolerant nations of the world."