PRAYAGRAJ, June 6 -- Emphasising the need for a self-reliant and secure India, former chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), G Satheesh Reddy, on Friday said that internal and external security remain the country's highest priorities. He added that self-reliance in the defence sector would make India both safer and economically stronger. Reddy was addressing the annual function and meritorious students felicitation ceremony-2026 of Allahabad Degree College (ADC), held at the Allahabad Medical Association auditorium. He said India stands at a decisive moment in its history and must pursue development while giving equal importance to environmental conservation to maintain ecological balance. Highlighting the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, he called upon citizens to contribute collectively toward nation-building. "Education, skill development, entrepreneurship and excellence are the key pillars of success in the 21st century," he said, adding that the objective of education should not be limited to securing jobs but should also encourage young people to become job creators. Reddy noted that the present era is being shaped by innovation, artificial intelligence, information technology, biotechnology and robotics. He stressed the need for a skilled, competent and visionary youth capable of addressing emerging challenges. He also underlined the importance of stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions and industry to realise the goal of a self-reliant India. Calling the growing participation of women in education a positive development, he said further efforts should be made to encourage and empower women through higher education. The programme featured a series of colourful cultural performances by students. The ADC Music Band, under the direction of Prof Indu Sharma, presented musical and vocal performances that received enthusiastic applause. Students also staged performances depicting Indian culture, religious traditions, motherhood and patriotism. The college's annual magazine, Aparajita, was released on the occasion. This year's edition is dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Principal Prof Atul Kumar Singh presented the annual report and welcomed the guests. Among those present were governing body chairperson Prof Piyush Ranjan Agrawal, Prof Harsh Kumar, Prof Jaya Mukherjee and Prof Rajendra Tripathi 'Rasraj', among others. As part of the felicitation ceremony, 34 meritorious students, 23 from undergraduate courses and 11 from postgraduate programmes, were awarded gold medals and certificates of merit....