SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) inaugurated its Ph.D. Batch 2026, welcoming a new group of doctoral scholars across 13 disciplines. The inauguration ceremony marked the beginning of the scholars’ research journey while reinforcing the university’s commitment to advancing research, innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The event was attended by eminent academicians, faculty members, research supervisors and newly admitted Ph.D. scholars. The highlight of the ceremony was the address by Padma Vibhushan Prof. Man Mohan Sharma, one of India’s most distinguished chemical engineers, who encouraged young researchers to pursue their doctoral studies with dedication, passion and perseverance.
Speaking at the inauguration, Prof. Sharma stressed the importance of research in national development. He said the prosperity of a nation can be linked to the number of Ph.D. holders per million people, underlining the critical role researchers play in driving innovation and economic progress. He urged scholars not to fear failure, describing setbacks as stepping stones to success.
Prof. Sharma also highlighted that original ideas are more valuable than abundant infrastructure. He encouraged students to remain committed to research, saying inventions pave the way for innovation and meaningful discoveries. Congratulating NMIMS for strengthening its research ecosystem, he advised scholars to work hard with passion while enjoying the learning process.
A recipient of both the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, Prof. Sharma is a former Director of the University Department of Chemical Technology (UDCT) and the first Indian engineer to be elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, London. He is widely recognised for his contributions to chemical engineering, scientific research and institution building.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Sharad Mhaiskar, Provost (Administration); Dr. Abhishek Ranjan, Pro Vice Chancellor; Dr. Tanmoy Chakraborty, Registrar; and Dr. Mayank Joshipura, Dean, School of Business Management (Research, Innovation & Faculty Development), along with senior faculty members and academic leaders.
The Ph.D. Batch 2026 includes scholars from Management, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, Data Science, Science, Physiotherapy, Mathematics, Statistics, Commerce, Economics, Law, Architecture and Liberal Arts. The diverse intake reflects NMIMS’ emphasis on multidisciplinary research that addresses real-world challenges through collaborative learning and innovation.
Addressing the scholars, Dr. Sharad Mhaiskar said pursuing a Ph.D. is an opportunity to move beyond consuming knowledge and become a creator of knowledge. He encouraged researchers to ensure their work contributes to solving business, societal and environmental challenges rather than remaining confined to academic discussions.
NMIMS stated that its doctoral programmes are designed to foster high-quality research through experienced faculty, modern research facilities and an interdisciplinary academic environment. The university aims to equip scholars with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to academia, industry and public policy.
By encouraging original thinking, innovation and research excellence, NMIMS continues to strengthen its position as a leading institution for doctoral education. The inauguration of the Ph.D. Batch 2026 reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to nurture future researchers capable of addressing complex global challenges and contributing to India’s growing knowledge economy.
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