Manipur University, June 5, 2026: Manipur University celebrated its 46th Foundation-cum-Commendation Day with great enthusiasm and solemnity at the Court Hall of the University on Friday, commemorating the institution's remarkable journey and recognizing the outstanding achievements and dedicated services of its faculty and staff.
Established on 5 June 1980 under the Manipur University Act, 1980, with only ten postgraduate departments, Manipur University has evolved into one of the premier institutions of higher education in Northeast India. The University attained the status of a Central University on 13 October 2005 and currently comprises 9 Schools of Studies, 47 Departments (Postgraduate and Undergraduate), 7 Centres, and 10 Cells, serving 6,453 students during the academic session 2025–26. The University also oversees 129 affiliated colleges and presently holds a NAAC B+ Accreditation and a NIRF Rank Band of 101–150.
The programme was graced by Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, Vice-Chancellor(i/c), Manipur University, as the Chief Guest, while Prof. M. Premjit Singh, Registrar, attended as the Guest of Honour. The function was presided over by Prof. N. Basanta Singh, Dean, School of Engineering.
In her address, Vice-Chancellor(i/c) Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam highlighted the collective efforts of the University's teaching, administrative, and support staff in ensuring holistic student development and institutional growth despite various challenges. She emphasized that the University's achievements are the result of teamwork, commitment, and dedication across all sections.
The Vice-Chancellor(i/c) particularly appreciated the Examination Section for conducting examinations in accordance with the academic calendar and acknowledged the contributions of the Finance and Academic Sections in ensuring the smooth functioning of the University. She also commended the Heads of Departments for effectively implementing academic regulations and urged the entire University community to continue striving for excellence.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. M. Premjit Singh, Registrar, congratulated the faculty members, non-teaching staff, and students on the occasion. He observed that the University's progress over the years has been built upon the dedication and hard work of its three key pillars—the administration, teaching community, and students. Expressing optimism about the future, he stated that Manipur University is well-positioned to achieve even greater milestones through continued commitment and collective effort.
Prof. A. Rajmani Singha, Director, Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), delivered the keynote and welcome address. Reflecting on the University's journey from its inception in 1980 to its 46th Foundation Day, he highlighted major milestones and achievements. Stressing the importance of academic excellence, he underscored the critical role of research, publications, innovation, and patents in enhancing the University's national and international standing.
In his Presidential Address, Prof. N. Basanta Singh congratulated faculty members who were honoured for their achievements in research, innovation, patents, and academic excellence. He also expressed gratitude to the retiring faculty and non-teaching staff for their invaluable contributions and wished them a healthy and fulfilling post-retirement life.
A commemorative brochure published by the Office of the Public Relations Officer (PRO), highlighting the University's major achievements and milestones, was officially released during the event. The publication showcases Manipur University's pioneering initiatives, including the early implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 from the academic session 2021–22, successful implementation of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP), and the enrolment of nearly 80% of students under the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) framework. The brochure also documents departmental achievements, faculty accomplishments, student successes, best practices, and various academic and research initiatives.
Faculty Members Honoured for Prestigious Awards and Recognitions
A major highlight of the celebration was the felicitation of faculty members who received prestigious awards, honours, recognitions, and fellowships at the state, national, and international levels during 2024–25.
The six faculty members honoured were:
Dr. Rameshori Yumnam, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, for receiving the Congress of Zoology Medal 2024 and the Young Scientist Gold Medal Award 2025.
Prof. Dr. Laishram Santosh Singh, Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, for receiving the Peace and Sports Award 2025 and the International Imminence Award in Physical Education 2025.
Prof. Dr. Ksh. Lal Bihari Singha, Department of Botany, for being elected Fellow of ESDA India and receiving the Lifetime Achievement Earth Saviour Award 2024.
Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Dance and Music, for receiving the Manipur State Kala Akademi Young Talent Award and recognition as a Top-Grade Artist in Manipuri Classical Dance by Prasar Bharati.
Dr. Salam Himika Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, for receiving the Excellence in Global Skill Training Award 2025.
Prof. Dr. Keithellakpam Sanatombi, Department of Biotechnology, for receiving the prestigious Women Leadership in STEM Award 2024.
Recognition of Patents Published and Granted
Faculty members whose patents were published or granted during 2024–25 were also felicitated:
Prof. Dr. Lisam Shanjukumar Singh and Dr. Thangjam Davis Singh, Department of Biotechnology, for their patent on an anticancer composition.
Prof. Dr. Ksh. Lal Bihari Singha, Department of Botany, for patents relating to vinegar and biochar production and a pyrolysis machine for bamboo and wood.
Prof. Dr. Laishram Santosh Singh, Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, for a patent on a neuromuscular monitoring and stimulating headband.
Dr. T. Deepamanjuri Devi, Department of Sociology, for a patent on a hot glue gun-enabled system for bordering and sealing of histological hard tissue.
Dr. Saikat Mukherjee, Department of Biotechnology, for a patent relating to an apparatus for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Gel Electrophoresis.
Felicitation of Retired Employees
The University also honoured retired employees for their long and dedicated service.
The retired faculty members felicitated were:
Prof. Soibam Imoba Singh, Department of Linguistics
Dr. Th. Tangkeshwar Singh, Department of Computer Science
Prof. Koijam Shantibala Devi, Department of Manipuri
Additionally, twelve retired non-teaching staff members were honoured in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the growth and functioning of the University.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Mr. Anisul Alam, Senior Assistant Registrar (Faculty).
The 46th Foundation-cum-Commendation Day concluded on a note of pride and optimism, reaffirming Manipur University's commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation, and nation-building while honouring the contributions of those who continue to strengthen the institution's legacy.
