Manipur University PhD Scholar Sanju Akoijam had the rare honour of interacting with Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi on May 19, 2026.
During the Rashtrapati Bhavan interaction, the artisans were felicitated with pashmina shawls, hosted for lunch, and given a guided tour of the presidential estate. Sanju described the experience as deeply motivating, reinforcing her commitment to preserving indigenous crafts and creating sustainable livelihoods.
Sanju was the only woman from Manipur selected among a distinguished group of artisans and weavers from the Northeastern states. The group had contributed significantly to the President’s ‘At Home’ Reception on Republic Day (January 26, 2026) by showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast through exquisite Kouna (Kauna grass) crafts and traditional handmade products.
In a heartfelt ceremony held today in the Vice Chancellor’s official chamber, Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain, Vice Chancellor (In-charge) of Manipur University, felicitated Sanju Akoijam. He warmly recognised her outstanding achievements in academics and entrepreneurship and encouraged her to continue her inspiring journey.
The Vice Chancellor also expressed gratitude to her mentor Prof. Hanjabam Isworchandra Sharma for his exemplary guidance in creating empowered scholar-entrepreneurs. “Manipur University remains committed to fostering such holistic mentorship that bridges academia, tradition, innovation, and entrepreneurship for a Viksit Bharat, ” he continued.
Sanju Akoijam, hailing from Singjamei Makha Oinam Thingel, Imphal East, is also the founder of H.I. Store, Imphal — an online enterprise specialising in sustainable handcrafted Kauna grass products, dried floral arrangements, and traditional Northeastern gifts.
What began as a modest venture with just Rs 3,000 has now grown into a promising enterprise with an expected turnover of Rs 3 crore. Her performance also earned her a Rs 7 lakh grant as one of the top 20 performers under the North Eastern Council’s (NEC) NEEDP scheme.
She credited her mentors, Prof. Hanjabam Isworchandra Sharma (Department of Economics) and Dr. Sorokhaibam Keshorjit Singh (Manipur Institute of Management Studies), for transforming her traditional craft knowledge into a successful sustainable business while maintaining high academic standards in her PhD research.
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.
