The North American Manipur Association (NAMA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 NAMA Research Grant. The grant is aimed at supporting young PhD researchers in Manipur.
After a rigorous selection process following applications from a varied pool of many deserving researchers, we have awarded the grant to the following two PhD candidates:
Winners:
Aheibam Robertson Singh
Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Biosocial Predisposition to Hypercalciuria among the Meiteis of Manipur
Project Abstract: Please click this link for an abstract of the research thesis
https://tinyurl.com/4u5fv42r
Yengkhom Haripriya Devi
Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology Manipur, Imphal
Project Title: Bamboo-Derived Carbon dots@UiO-66(Hf) Based Hybrid as an Enhanced Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) Applications.
Project Abstract: Please click this link for an abstract of the research thesis
https://tinyurl.com/39m84n2t
In addition to the two winners, we are pleased to recognize the following candidates with an Honorable Mention. While they did not receive the award, their applications stood out for excellence and potential to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.
Honorable Mentions:
Akham Thajamanbi Devi
Department of Earth Sciences, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Geochemical and Geochronological Study of Heavy Minerals of Cenozoic Clastic Sediments of Manipur, Northeast India
Goutam Elangbam
Department of Geography, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Assessment of Climate Extremes to Understand Current and Future Climate Risks in Manipur
Mayanglambam Maneeta Devi
Department of Chemistry, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Application of Ionic Liquid in the Synthesis of Imidazole Derivatives with Pharmacological Significance
Rajiv Oinam
Department of Civil Engineering, Manipur Institute of Technology, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Hydro – Optimization as Wetland Praxis: NSGA – II Modelling for Stormwater Retention in the Yaralpat Basin
Sanasam Yaiphabi
Department of Biochemistry, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Biological Evaluation and Mechanistic Insights of Silk Fibroin Film Biomaterial Derived from Manipur Wild Non-Mulberry Silkworm Antheraea frithi Moore Cocoon for Wound Healing Applications
Valentina Maisnam
Manipur Institute of Management Studies, Manipur University, Imphal
Project Title: Entrepreneurial Innovation and Development of Startup Enterprises: A Study of Selected Units in Northeast India.
We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the members of the Selection Committee for their dedication and outstanding work in evaluating the applications:
Dr. Amom Ruhikanta Meetei (Committee Chair)
Dr. Babyrani Yumnam
Dr. Bimbisar Irom
Dr. Budhachandra Khundrakpam
Dr. George Yumnam
Dr. Ingocha Lukram Meitei
Dr. Lalit Pukhrambam
Mr. Martin Haobam
Dr. Meiraba Chirom
Dr. Raju Huidrom
Finally, NAMA—in collaboration with the Research Institute of Science and Technology (RIST), Imphal, and Manipur University—will be organizing the award ceremony on Friday, 30 January 2026 at Manipur University, Imphal. For details, stay tuned at