MAHE Celebrates NIRF Success and Announces New Sports Initiatives

Manipal, September 19, 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, has reaffirmed its leadership in Indian higher education by securing the 3rd position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 University Rankings. This success highlights MAHE's strong commitment to excellence in education, research, and healthcare.

The achievement coincides with the 90th birthday of MAHE's Hon’ble Chancellor, Dr Ramdas M. Pai, Padma Bhushan awardee, whose vision transformed Manipal from a hilltop town into a global hub of learning.

At a special ceremony held at Manipal on Wednesday, Dr Ranjan R. Pai, President of MAHE Trust and Chairman of MEMG, Bengaluru, presented the NIRF certificate to Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, in the presence of Mrs Vasanti R. Pai, Trustee, MAHE Trust.  He also presented NIRF ranking certificates to the MAHE constituent institutions mentioned below.

• Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal: 5th position
• Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences: 8th position
• Kasturba Medical College, Manipal: 10th position
• Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore: 11th position
• Manipal School of Architecture and Planning: 27th position
• Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore: 35th position
• T. A. Pai Management Institute: 39th position
• Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT): 59th position

Speaking on the occasion, Dr H.S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, emphasised the leadership journey of MAHE, “This recognition at the NIRF is not just about rankings; it is about reaffirming MAHE’s legacy as a pioneer in quality education, research, and healthcare. It is a tribute to our founder’s vision and the dedication of every member of the MAHE family.”

Addressing the gathering, the Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Venkatesh said, “The NIRF 2025 achievement and today’s reforms in sports and physical well-being reflect MAHE’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. We are dedicated to building an ecosystem where academic excellence, physical vitality, and social responsibility thrive together.”

He announced three landmark initiatives to promote holistic education and well-being across the MAHE Campuses.

1. The Directorate of Sports: A central body to manage all sports and wellness activities at MAHE.
2. The Manipal Institute of Sports: A unified centre for sports education, training, and research.
3. The Collaborative Activity Vertical: A platform for partnerships in grassroots sports, rehabilitation, and high-performance programs.

On this occasion, Dr Shobha M. E., Associate Professor at MIT, Manipal, who had received the National Award for Teacher 2025 from the Honourable President of India earlier this month, was honoured.   This national award carries a certificate of merit, a cash reward of Rs 50,000/ and a silver medal. A trailblazing educator and accomplished sportsperson, she is the first Indian woman to win international medals in Orienteering.