UGC NET Manipuri 2025 exam is a prestigious opportunity for postgraduate candidates aspiring to academic and research careers in Manipuri language and literature. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC), the exam will be held on 6 January 2026 in the 2nd shift. It determines eligibility for Assistant Professor positions and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. This article offers a comprehensive guide to the UGC NET Manipuri exam, covering the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, syllabus, previous year papers, exam analysis, and career opportunities.
What is UGC NET Manipuri?
UGC NET Manipuri is a subject-specific examination under the UGC NET framework. It evaluates candidates’ knowledge in Manipuri language, literary criticism, linguistics, and traditional as well as modern literature.
Upon qualifying, candidates are eligible for:
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): Enables funded research work.
- Assistant Professor: For teaching in Indian universities and colleges.
This exam ensures academic standards by selecting highly qualified professionals for research and teaching.
UGC NET Manipuri 2025 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- A Master’s degree in Manipuri or a related subject from a UGC-recognized institution.
- Minimum required marks:
- General/OBC-NCL/EWS/Third Gender: 55%
- SC/ST/PwD: 50%
- Final-year PG students may also apply provisionally.
Age Limit
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
- General: Up to 30 years
- OBC-NCL: Up to 33 years
- SC/ST/PwD/Women: Up to 35 years
- Assistant Professor: No upper age limit.
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
UGC NET Manipuri Exam Pattern 2025
The exam is held in a single session and includes two papers:
| Paper | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration | Format |
| Paper I | Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 3 hours (combined) | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Paper II | Manipuri (Subject-specific) | 100 | 200 | 3 hours (combined) | Multiple Choice Questions |
There is no negative marking in either paper.
UGC NET Manipuri Marking Scheme 2025
| Paper | Total Questions | Marks/Question | Total Marks | Negative Marking |
| Paper I | 50 | 2 | 100 | No |
| Paper II | 100 | 2 | 200 | No |
| Total | 150 | – | 300 | No |
UGC NET Manipuri Minimum Qualifying Marks
| Category | Paper I | Paper II |
| General / Unreserved | 40% | 40% |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD / Others | 35% | 35% |
UGC NET Manipuri Syllabus 2025
The ugc net manipuri syllabus is divided into 10 units, designed to assess your understanding of traditional texts, contemporary literature, grammar, and applied linguistics.
Paper I: General Aptitude
- Teaching Aptitude
- Research Aptitude
- Communication
- Comprehension
- Mathematical Reasoning and Aptitude
- Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- People, Development, and Environment
- Higher Education System
Paper II: Manipuri Subject Content
The syllabus covers:
- History and evolution of Manipuri literature
- Classical and modern poetry
- Prose, fiction, and drama
- Linguistics and grammar
- Manipuri folklore and cultural studies
- Literary criticism and comparative literature
UGC NET Manipuri Syllabus PDF Download
| Subject | Link |
| Paper I | Download Now |
| Manipuri | Download Now |
Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus
UGC NET Manipuri Previous Year Question Papers
Reviewing UGC NET Manipuri question papers is essential for understanding the question trends, difficulty level, and weightage of topics.
| Year | Download Link |
| 2024 | Available Soon |
| 2023 | Available Soon |
| 2022 | Available Soon |
| 2021 | Available Soon |
| 2020 | Available Soon |
These papers are useful for identifying frequently asked topics and enhancing exam strategy.
Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025
Career Opportunities After UGC NET Manipuri
Clearing the UGC NET Manipuri exam opens up rewarding roles in both academic and non-academic sectors.
Academic Roles
- Assistant Professor in colleges/universities
- Research associate or scholar
- Doctoral programs with JRF funding
Government Sector
- Roles in cultural and language policy bodies
- Translator and editor in government departments
- Research positions in linguistic and literary institutions
Private Sector
- Language expert or content editor
- Translator and localization specialist
- Writer and researcher for publishing houses or media
Preparation Tips for UGC NET Manipuri 2025
To boost your performance, follow these tried-and-tested strategies:
- Cover the Entire Syllabus: Give equal importance to each unit in both papers.
- Practice with Previous Papers: Identify high-frequency topics and revise accordingly.
- Don’t Ignore Paper I: Logical reasoning and teaching aptitude can improve your overall score.
- Mock Tests are Key: Take regular mock exams to simulate real test conditions.
- Daily Study Routine: Aim for 4–6 hours of focused study per day.
- Use Quality Resources: Rely on standard books, NTA’s official syllabus, and video lectures.
- Stay Updated: Join study groups or online forums for latest updates and practice material.
Conclusion
The UGC NET Manipuri 2025 exam, scheduled to be held on 6 January 2026 in Shift 2, is a key milestone for candidates aiming for teaching and research careers in Manipuri language, literature, and cultural studies. With a well-structured syllabus and no negative marking, the exam offers a fair assessment platform. Strategic preparation, understanding the exam pattern, and practicing previous year papers are crucial for success. Qualifying UGC NET Manipuri opens doors to rewarding careers in academia, cultural institutions, and language-based industries.
UGC NET Manipuri FAQs
What does the syllabus for UGC NET Manipuri include?
The UGC NET Manipuri syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including the origin and development of the Manipuri language, traditional and modern Manipuri literature, grammar, literary forms and movements, critical approaches, and folk literature. Candidates are expected to have an in-depth understanding of both classical and contemporary texts.
What is the exam pattern for UGC NET Manipuri?
The exam is divided into two papers. Paper I is general and tests teaching and research aptitude with 50 multiple choice questions worth 100 marks. Paper II is specific to Manipuri and contains 100 multiple choice questions worth 200 marks. Both papers are conducted in a single three-hour session without any break in between.
How should one prepare for UGC NET Manipuri?
Preparation for UGC NET Manipuri requires a thorough study of the prescribed syllabus, including literary history, prominent authors, and linguistic aspects of the language. Reviewing previous years’ question papers, practicing mock tests, and studying recommended textbooks and critical essays are essential. Joining study groups or taking guidance from mentors or coaching institutions can also improve one’s chances of success.
What can I do after qualifying UGC NET Manipuri?
You can become an Assistant Professor, enroll in a PhD program with JRF, or work in language research, publishing, content development, or translation.
