Manipur University, 11 March 2025: The Manipur University Central Library launched Turnitin, a plagiarism detection software, along with the Library Patron Traffic Counter on 11 March 2025 at the Conference Hall, Central Library, Manipur University (MU). The event marked a significant step in enhancing the quality of original research, tracking library footfalls, and preserving rare documents related to Manipur Studies and Workers' Education. Additionally, the upgradation of various sections, including the Special Collections of the Centre for Manipur Studies (CMS) and the Dattopant Thengadi National Board for Workers Education & Development (DTNBWED), was also undertaken.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Vice-Chancellor of MU, expressed his optimism that with the introduction of these key facilities, MU would once again become a hub for intellectuals, attracting students, scholars, and researchers from various disciplines. He urged students to make efficient use of Turnitin, adapting to the evolving academic landscape by acquiring new skill sets. He concluded by emphasizing that the library should attract a large number of intellectuals actively engaged in research and knowledge acquisition, which in turn would help increase its footfall.
Meanwhile, Prof. W. Chandbabu Singh, Registrar of MU, stated that Turnitin would enhance the quality and originality of research papers, thereby boosting students' morale. Highlighting the importance of tracking library usage, he noted that the Library Patron Traffic Counter would help assess footfall, a crucial criterion for NAAC accreditation and international rankings. Referring to the Dattopant Thengadi National Board for Workers Education & Development (DTNBWED) as a "think tank," he mentioned that the board would undertake extensive research and formulate various policy recommendations.
The event was presided over by Prof. Ch. Ibohal Singh, Librarian of MU. Speaking on the role of technology and software in research, he emphasized the need to address the growing influence of AI in academic studies. He pointed out that advanced plagiarism detection tools like Turnitin are essential for verifying research synopses against online repositories and assessing emerging research trends.
Speaking as a guest of honour, Prof. Memcha Loitongbam, Dean of the School of Social Sciences, stressed that Turnitin is an essential tool for ensuring originality in research and knowledge production. She highlighted the increasing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic research, explaining that with the advancement of technology, the importance of original contributions has become more critical. She further added that when used efficiently, plagiarism detection software can foster fresh perspectives and improve the quality of academic work.
Meanwhile, Prof. Rajmani Singha, Director of IAQC, MU, discussed the significance of the Library Patron Traffic Counter in monitoring and recording library usage. He expressed his gratitude to the university administration for implementing the system, which would help address previous challenges related to tracking footfall. Noting the currently low library attendance, he urged students and faculty members to visit the library more frequently, with the goal of reaching 1,000 daily visitors in the upcoming academic year. He also suggested that project-based assignments could encourage students to utilize the library’s e-resources, e-books, and other academic materials, thereby increasing footfall.
