Raipur
A 17-member student delegation from Japan’s Ehime University called on Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai at his official residence in Raipur on Sunday. The students, visiting Chhattisgarh on a three-day educational tour under the India-Japan Inter-Exchange Programme, engaged in an interactive session with the chief minister. The discussions covered historical and cultural ties, Buddhist heritage, education, research, technical innovations, startups, and youth engagement between the two nations.
Welcoming the delegation to Chhattisgarh, chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that the friendship between India and Japan remains rooted in a shared cultural and spiritual heritage. Over time, this bond has expanded beyond spirituality into education, science, technology, innovation, and economic cooperation.
The chief minister noted that India and Japan play key roles in global development by blending tradition with modernity. Built on mutual trust and respect, these bilateral relations will gain strength in future generations through student and academic exchanges.
Chief minister Sai highlighted India as the land of Lord Buddha, whose messages of peace, compassion, and human welfare influenced many countries, leaving a deep mark on Japanese culture. This shared spiritual legacy creates a unique cultural connection between the two countries.
Sharing details of Chhattisgarh’s archaeological heritage, the chief minister mentioned key sites such as Sirpur, Mainpat, and Bhongapal. He described Sirpur, situated on the banks of the Mahanadi, as a centre of ancient civilization, art, architecture, and Buddhist heritage, where archaeological remains showcase the region’s history.
Chief minister Sai reiterated the state government’s commitment to promoting Chhattisgarh’s historical and archaeological sites globally. Plans are underway to develop Sirpur into a world-class historical and tourism site, aiming to attract international students, researchers, and tourists to build lasting academic and cultural ties with the state.
Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai also shared experiences from his past visit to Japan, praising the country’s disciplined work culture, technological advancement, and respect for tradition. He noted that Japan’s ability to preserve its cultural identity while advancing in modern science and technology serves as an inspiration.
He added that India is similarly moving forward toward a knowledge-based economy, combining its thousand-year-old civilization with modern technology. Increased dialogue between the youth of both countries remains essential for future relations.
Education and tech to drive cooperation
Chief minister Sai emphasized that knowledge, research, innovation, and technology form the core of modern development. Growing cooperation between educational institutions in India and Japan will provide students with exposure to new research and technological fields.
He expressed confidence that interaction between students of Ehime University and higher technical institutions in Chhattisgarh will lead to joint research projects, technical collaboration, and startup initiatives. Such exchange programmes build a strong foundation for youth friendship and mutual understanding.
Japanese delegation praises Indian hospitality
Members of the Japanese student delegation shared their experiences of staying in Chhattisgarh, noting the warm reception in Raipur and the local traditions and lifestyle.
The students appreciated Indian food and shared their excitement about observing Ganesh Utsav traditions up close. Female delegation members mentioned applying mehendi and shopping for traditional Indian attire. They noted that the trip allowed them to understand Indian society and culture beyond textbooks.
Chief minister Sai expressed happiness over their feedback, stating that Chhattisgarh is known for its hospitality, and invited them to visit the state again in the future.
Interest in NIT Raipur startups
During the tour, the delegation visited research and incubation centres at NIT Raipur to review ongoing startup activities, research projects, and new technologies.
Startups focused on developing practical, technology-driven solutions for daily public issues drew particular interest from the Japanese students. The delegation expressed interest in technology transfer, joint research, and innovation-based collaboration.
The 17-member delegation from Ehime University arrived in Chhattisgarh for a three-day educational visit under the India-Japan Inter-Exchange Programme. Along with academic engagements at NIT Raipur, the delegation’s itinerary includes a visit to Sirpur to explore Chhattisgarh’s ancient Buddhist heritage, architecture, and cultural history.
Chief minister Sai extended his best wishes to the delegation, stating that such visits introduce the younger generation to each other’s achievements and opportunities, paving the way for future knowledge-sharing and shared progress.
