New Delhi, July 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the achievement of Dr Ronaldo Laishram from Manipur, whose contribution to astronomy has brought global attention to both Indian science and the state’s iconic Loktak Lake.
Addressing the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, the Prime Minister said Dr Laishram’s journey reflects how young Indians can achieve global recognition while remaining connected to their roots.
PM Modi said Dr Laishram, who is currently working in Japan, was part of a research team that discovered a massive cluster of young galaxies and chose to name it the “Loktak Protocluster” after Manipur’s famous freshwater lake.
“Loktak is a vast freshwater lake; the floating phumdis within it create a unique landscape. It looks as if small islands are floating in a vast ocean. Similarly, these young galaxies in the cosmos form a massive structure,” the Prime Minister said.
He explained that the floating phumdis — masses of vegetation and biomass found on Loktak Lake — inspired the comparison with young galaxies forming a large structure in space.
PM Modi said the naming of the galaxy cluster has taken Loktak’s recognition beyond India’s geographical boundaries and connected the natural heritage of Manipur with a major scientific discovery.
“Today, Manipur’s Loktak is shining bright not only on the country’s map but also across the vast universe,” he said, adding that the achievement is a matter of pride for every Indian.
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