Imphal, June 5: Manipur University celebrated its 46th Foundation-cum-Commendation Day with enthusiasm and dignity at the Court Hall of the University on Friday, marking more than four decades of academic growth, institutional achievements, and service to society. The occasion also served as a platform to honour faculty members and staff for their outstanding contributions in academics, research, innovation, patents, and dedicated service to the institution.
Established on June 5, 1980 under the Manipur University Act, 1980 with just ten postgraduate departments, the University has evolved into one of Northeast India’s leading centres of higher education. It attained the status of a Central University on October 13, 2005, and today comprises nine Schools of Studies, 47 departments, seven centres and ten cells. During the 2025-26 academic session, the University enrolled 6,453 students and currently oversees 129 affiliated colleges. It also holds a NAAC B+ accreditation and is placed in the NIRF Rank Band of 101-150.
The celebration was graced by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam as Chief Guest, while Registrar Prof. M. Premjit Singh attended as Guest of Honour. The programme was presided over by Prof. N. Basanta Singh, Dean, School of Engineering.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam highlighted the collective efforts of the University’s teaching, administrative and support staff in ensuring holistic student development and institutional progress despite various challenges. She emphasized that the achievements of Manipur University are the result of teamwork and commitment across all sections of the University.
The Vice-Chancellor lauded the Examination Section for conducting examinations in accordance with the academic calendar and appreciated the Finance and Academic Sections for ensuring the smooth functioning of the institution. She also acknowledged the efforts of Heads of Departments in implementing academic regulations effectively and urged the University community to continue working together towards greater excellence and sustainable growth.
In his address, Registrar Prof. M. Premjit Singh congratulated the administration, faculty members, staff and students on the occasion. He stated that the University’s progress over the years has been built on the dedication, sacrifices and hard work of its three principal pillars—the administration, teachers and students. Expressing confidence in the institution’s future, he said Manipur University is poised to achieve even greater milestones with continued sincerity and commitment.
The keynote and welcome address was delivered by Prof. A. Rajmani Singha, Director, Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC). Reflecting on the University’s journey from its inception in 1980 to its present status, he highlighted major milestones and achievements. He stressed the importance of research, publications, innovation and patents in enhancing the University’s national and international visibility. While acknowledging the significance of accreditation and rankings such as NAAC and NIRF, he noted that the true strength of a university lies in the quality of its research, scholarly contributions and knowledge generation.
In his Presidential Address, Prof. N. Basanta Singh congratulated faculty members who were recognised for excellence in research, innovation, patents and academic achievements. He also paid tribute to retiring faculty and non-teaching staff members for their invaluable service and wished them a healthy and fulfilling post-retirement life.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Anisul Alam, Senior Assistant Registrar (Faculty) of Manipur University.
A commemorative brochure published by the Office of the Public Relations Officer (PRO) was formally released during the programme. The publication highlights the University’s major achievements and milestones, including its early adoption of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 from the academic session 2021-22.
The brochure notes that nearly 80 percent of students have been enrolled under the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) framework and details the successful implementation of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP). It also documents departmental achievements, faculty accomplishments, student successes, best practices and various academic and research initiatives undertaken by the University.
Faculty Members Honoured for National and International Recognition
One of the major highlights of the Foundation-cum-Commendation Day was the felicitation of faculty members who received prestigious awards, honours, recognitions and fellowships at 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 from the Zoological Society of India and the Young Scientist Gold Medal Award 2025 from the Indian Academy of Environmental Sciences.
Prof. Dr. Laishram Santosh Singh, Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, for receiving the Peace and Sports Award 2025 from the World Society for Peace, South Korea, 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 Women Leadership in STEM Award 2024 from Grand Challenges India under BIRAC.
Patents and Innovations Recognised
The University also honoured faculty members whose patents were published or granted during 2024-25.
Among those recognised were:
Prof. Dr. Lisam Shanjukumar Singh and Dr. Thangjam Davis Singh for their patent on an “Anticancer composition”.
Prof. Dr. Ksh. Lal Bihari Singha for two patents related to “Biochar and vinegar production from agricultural residues” and a “Pyrolysis machine for bamboo and wood”.
Prof. Dr. Laishram Santosh Singh for a “Neuromuscular monitoring and stimulating headband”.
Dr. T. Deepamanjuri Devi for a “Hot glue gun-enabled system for bordering and sealing histological hard tissue”.
Dr. Saikat Mukherjee for an “Apparatus for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis”.
Retired Employees Felicitated
A special segment of the programme was dedicated to honouring retired employees for their long and dedicated service to the University.
The retired faculty members felicitated were:
Professor Soibam Imoba Singh, Department of Linguistics
Dr. Th. Tangkeshwar Singh, Department of Computer Science
Professor Koijam Shantibala Devi, Department of Manipuri
Additionally, twelve retired non-teaching staff members, including administrative officers, peons and sweepers, were honoured for their invaluable contributions to the University’s growth and functioning.
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 celebrating the achievements and contributions of individuals who continue to strengthen the institution’s legacy.
Naorem Mohen is the Editor of Signpost News. Explore his views and opinion on X: @laimacha.
Naorem Mohen
View More PostsNaorem Mohen is the Editor of Signpost News. Explore his views and opinion on X: @laimacha.
