Kakching: Continuing its initiative to foster scientific curiosity among the youth, Assam Rifles facilitated visit of Dr Ronaldo Laishram, an internationally acclaimed astrophysicist from Khangabok, Manipur at Kakching Garrison today. This event follows his recent visit to Pallel Garrison on 31 May 2026, where he interacted with personnel and students and recorded a special podcast. The upcoming podcast will be available on the “Radio Highway” mobile App on 05 June 2026.
Currently a Project (Postdoctoral) Researcher at the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), Dr Ronaldo recently led the discovery of the “Loktak Protocluster”, a 12.6-billion-year-old galactic structure from the early universe named after Manipur’s iconic Loktak Lake. He has also contributed to discovering a main-belt asteroid.
During the event, Dr Ronaldo interacted with 130 students and teachers of Assam Rifles Public School, Kakching. He shared his journey from a remote village with limited scientific infrastructure to the world of stars, emphasizing perseverance, dedication and critical thinking. The students enthusiastically engaged with the scientist during an extensive question-and-answer session on astronomy, space exploration and emerging technological developments. This meaningful interaction successfully promoted scientific temper and career aspirations in STEM fields, highlighting Assam Rifles’ commitment towards regional educational outreach and youth empowerment through engagement with eminent intellectual role models.
