Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University (RPNLU), Prayagraj, commenced its week-long Foundation Day celebrations on 16 February 2026 with an inaugural ceremony held at the University campus.
The ceremony was graced by Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao, Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Sanjay Deshmukh, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, as the Guest of Honour. The programme was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor of RPNLU, Senior Professor (Dr.) Usha Tandon.
The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by the felicitation of the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour for their distinguished contributions to legal education and academic leadership.
In her welcome address, Senior Professor (Dr.) Usha Tandon welcomed the distinguished guests and expressed pride in the progress made by the University in a short span of time. She highlighted the University's emphasis on student-centric learning, research, legal aid, and community engagement, and expressed confidence in its continued institutional growth.
In his address, Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao shared valuable insights from his long experience in legal education. He emphasised the importance of academic discipline, ethical values, and experiential learning in shaping responsible legal professionals. He encouraged students by sharing his “Seven Mantras” and urged them to remain curious, committed, and guided by the ideals of justice and the rule of law.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sanjay Deshmukh congratulated the University on its Foundation Day and appreciated the collective efforts of its faculty and students. He observed that young institutions are shaped by vision, dedication, and teamwork, and expressed confidence that RPNLU would steadily emerge as a strong academic institution. He also spoke about seven pathways through which the University can achieve new heights.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Prakash Tripathi, Convener of the programme.
The ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, officers, staff, and students, reflecting the vibrant academic spirit of the University. The inauguration of the Foundation Day celebrations marked a moment of pride and reflection for RPNLU, Prayagraj, reaffirming its commitment to quality legal education, research, and service to society.