Imphal: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Tuesday presented the Governor’s Award 2026 and Rajkumari Sanatombi Devi Awards 2026 at a ceremony held at Asha Jina Complex, North A.O.C., in Imphal.
Bhalla presented the Governor’s Award 2026 to Sushitra Ningthemchamayum, a Class XI (Science) student of R.K. Sanatombi Devi Vidyalaya.
He also presented the Rajkumari Sanatombi Devi Awards 2026 to selected students and individuals in recognition of their outstanding achievements and contributions to education, teaching, teacher education, nursing, sports, social work, the differently abled category and co-curricular activities.
Prof R.K. Hemakumar Singh, Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) of Manipur University, and Dr R.K. Nimai Singh, Chairman of the Selection Board of the awards, attended the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor congratulated all the awardees for their achievements, dedication and hard work. He said awards not only recognise achievement but also encourage others to strive for excellence.
Bhalla recalled that the Governor’s Award, instituted in 1998, recognises excellence in academics and co-curricular activities among students of Rajkumari Sanatombi Devi Vidyalaya.
He also noted that the Rajkumari Sanatombi Devi Awards, instituted in 1983, recognise excellence in teaching, teacher education, nursing, sports, social work, the differently abled category and co-curricular activities.
Emphasising the importance of holistic education, the Governor said excellence takes many forms and that participation in sports and co-curricular activities helps develop confidence, teamwork, leadership and a sense of responsibility.
He acknowledged the contributions of parents, teachers, coaches, institutions and communities behind the success of the awardees and urged the recipients to uphold discipline, perseverance, integrity and a spirit of service to society.
Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, Bhalla said the younger generation has an immense role to play in achieving the goal of a developed nation and urged everyone to contribute in their respective fields.
The Governor expressed hope that the achievements of the awardees would inspire more young people to pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to society.
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