Sculptor Premchandra Pukhrambam from Manipur’s Kakching district has been honoured with the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi Award at the 64th National Exhibition of Art 2025 for his wooden sculpture titled “Made Me Change.”

The National Exhibition of Art (NEA), organised by the Lalit Kala Akademi—India’s National Academy of Art—was inaugurated on Tuesday in New Delhi with a grand ceremony attended by renowned artists, cultural icons, and art enthusiasts from across the country.

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

This year’s exhibition features a curated collection of 283 artworks selected from over 5,900 submissions through a rigorous two-tier jury process. The exhibited works span various media, including painting, sculpture, graphic art, installation, and photography—reflecting India’s dynamic and diverse artistic landscape.

Premchandra’s award-winning piece adds to Manipur’s growing reputation in the national arts scene.