Prayagraj, 16 February 2026 — Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj (RPNLU, Prayagraj) formally commenced its week-long Foundation Day celebrations on 16 February 2026 with a grand inaugural ceremony held at the University campus. The event marked a significant milestone in the University’s journey and reflected its growing stature in the field of legal education in India.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao, Hon’ble 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 Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of RPNLU, Senior Professor (Dr.) Usha Tandon.
The ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolising knowledge and enlightenment, followed by the felicitation of the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour in recognition of their distinguished contributions to legal education and academic leadership.
Vision, Growth, and Student-Centric Learning
In her welcome address, Senior Professor (Dr.) Usha Tandon warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and reflected on the remarkable progress made by RPNLU in a short span of time. She highlighted the University’s strong emphasis on student-centric learning, quality research, legal aid initiatives, and community engagement, while expressing confidence in the institution’s sustained academic and institutional growth.
Insights on Legal Education and Ethical Values
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao shared valuable insights drawn from his extensive experience in legal education. He underscored the importance of academic discipline, ethical values, and experiential learning in shaping responsible and socially conscious legal professionals. He motivated students by sharing his “Seven Mantras”, urging them to remain curious, committed, and guided by the ideals of justice and the rule of law.
Pathways to Institutional Excellence
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sanjay Deshmukh congratulated RPNLU, Prayagraj on its Foundation Day and appreciated the collective efforts of its faculty, officers, 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 and respected academic institution. He also elaborated on seven key pathways through which the University could achieve new heights of excellence.
Vote of Thanks
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Prakash Tripathi, Convener of the programme, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty members, staff, students, and organisers for making the inaugural ceremony a success.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, officers, staff, and students, reflecting the vibrant academic spirit of RPNLU, Prayagraj. The inauguration of the Foundation Day celebrations marked a moment of pride and reflection for the University, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to quality legal education, research, and service to society.