IGNOU Regional Centre Kolkata Observes 150th Anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, Holds Orientation for Academic Counsellors
Kolkata, January 27, 2026: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Regional Centre Kolkata, organised a special programme to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of “Vande Mataram”, as part of the celebration of the 77th Republic Day and an Orientation Programme for Academic Counsellors, at the IGNOU Learner Support Centre (LSC-2887P),
Satyapriya Roy College of Education, Bidhannagar.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and felicitation of dignitaries, followed by a soulful rendition of “Vande Mataram” by the Choir of Satyapriya Roy College of Education in association with IGNOU Regional Centre Kolkata, creating a
solemn and patriotic ambience.
Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Sujata Dutta Hazarika, Senior Regional Director, IGNOU
Regional Centre Kolkata, highlighted the constitutional values of the Republic and
emphasised the enduring relevance of “Vande Mataram” in fostering national unity and collective consciousness. Dr. Subir Nag, Principal, Satyapriya Roy College of Education, extended institutional greetings and underscored the role of education in shaping responsible
citizenship.

The programme featured addresses by eminent academicians. The Chief Guest, Prof. Dr. Nirmal Kanti Chakrabarti, Former Vice-Chancellor, NUJS, Kolkata, spoke on the continuing relevance of constitutional ideals in higher education and described “Vande Mataram” as a profound philosophical expression that significantly influenced India‟s freedom movement.
The Guest of Honour, Prof. Rupendra Kumar Chattopadhyay, reflected on the historical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of the song, while Dr. Bikramjit De, Special Guest, highlighted its role in shaping national consciousness and democratic values.
Following the commemorative session, an Orientation Programme for Academic Counsellors was conducted. The sessions, led by Dr. Ajay Kumar Behera, Deputy Director, and Dr. Santanu Mukherji, Assistant Regional Director, focused on academic counselling practices,
learner support mechanisms, evaluation processes, and online counselling.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks, marking a meaningful academic
engagement and reaffirming IGNOU‟s commitment to quality and learner-centric education.
