The Department of Mathematics, Manipur University, on Monday inaugurated a two-day National Conference on “Recent Trends in Mathematics” at the Court Hall of the university campus in Canchipur, marking the celebration of National Mathematics Day.

The inaugural function was attended by several eminent academicians, with Prof. Sushant G. Ghosh, Director of the Centre for Theoretical Physics, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, gracing the occasion as chief guest. Prof. Tarun Kumar Das, Head of the Department of Mathematics, University of Delhi, and Prof. Swaroop Nandan Bora from the Department of Mathematics, IIT Guwahati, attended as guests of honour. The programme was presided over by Prof. K. Binod Mangang, Head of the Department of Mathematics, Manipur University, and was also attended by Prof. Ruchi Das of the University of Delhi along with other scholars.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ghosh spoke on the ongoing research collaborations between Jamia Millia Islamia and Manipur University and acknowledged the significant role played by retired Prof. N. G. Ibohal of Manipur University in strengthening academic cooperation between the two institutions.

Prof. Tarun Kumar Das highlighted the long-standing academic ties between the Department of Mathematics at the University of Delhi and Manipur University, noting that several faculty members and postgraduate and doctoral students from Manipur University have pursued higher studies in Delhi University and its affiliated colleges.

Emphasising the need to further consolidate institutional linkages, he expressed confidence that his visit would pave the way for new avenues of academic collaboration.

Recalling his long association with Manipur University, Prof. Swaroop Nandan Bora spoke of his frequent visits to the campus and expressed optimism about expanding future research collaborations for the mutual benefit of both institutions.

In his presidential address, Prof. K. Binod Mangang said that National Mathematics Day is not merely a historical commemoration but holds strategic importance, particularly in the context of India’s aspirations in a rapidly evolving multipolar world. He underlined that leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with mathematics as its core foundation, plays a crucial role in enhancing global competitiveness and influence.

Earlier, Dr. Thoudam Roshan Singh delivered the welcome address, highlighting the contributions of legendary mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan and stressing the importance of mathematical awareness and analytical thinking in driving modern innovation. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Kh. Herachandra, who expressed gratitude to Manipur University Vice-Chancellor Prof. N. Lokendra Singh for his continued support and to the sponsors, including the State Bank of India, Manipur University Branch, and Delhi Book Store, New Delhi. The programme was compered by Dr. Benaki Lairenjam, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, Manipur University.

The two-day conference has drawn around 200 participants, including renowned experts, researchers and students from across the country. As many as 77 participants are scheduled to present their research papers during the event, which aims to provide a vibrant platform for scholarly interaction and critical engagement with contemporary developments in the field of mathematics.