VMRF

About VMRF

A legacy built on purpose

What began as a single pharmacy college in Salem in 1982 has grown into one of India's most comprehensive multidisciplinary universities — serving 19,000+ students across medicine, engineering, law, arts, and health sciences.

Our Legacy and Growth

Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (VMRF) traces its origins to 1981, established by our visionary Founder-Chairman, Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram. What began as a single pharmacy college in 1982 has blossomed into a pioneering force in the realm of multidisciplinary education.

In 2001, we achieved a prestigious milestone, officially recognized as the "48th Deemed to be University" in India. Today, our expansive academic landscape boasts 14 Colleges and 13 Schools across multiple campuses, empowering over 21,000 students annually.

"Guided by a steadfast commitment to societal impact," VMRF integrates education, healthcare, and research. With more than 4,000 dedicated staff members, our institutions feature 3 Medical Colleges with 2000+ beds serving rural populations, alongside 46 advanced research laboratories.

Holding a proud NAAC 'A' grade accreditation and over 175 patents, our three-decade journey remains deeply rooted in our founding promise of "enlightenment, empowerment, and continuous innovation."

Vision & Mission

Guiding framework of VMRF

Built on purpose, this framework defines how VMRF learns, leads, and serves through education, research, and compassionate care.

Mission

To provide quality-driven, inclusive education and clinical training; foster innovation and translational research; and strengthen community health through accessible, ethical care.

Vision

To emerge as a globally respected multidisciplinary university that integrates education, healthcare, and research to create meaningful impact in society.

Core Values

Integrity, academic excellence, compassion, innovation, and social responsibility remain the foundational values shaping every institution under VMRF.

Guiding the university

Leadership & vision

From the founder's original vision of service through education to today's leadership team — VMRF-DU is guided by people committed to building institutions that matter.

Founder — in memoriam

Late Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram

Founder-Chairman, VMRF

In 1982, Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram founded Vinayaka Mission's College of Pharmacy in Salem — the first step in a vision of creating a comprehensive educational ecosystem serving students and communities across Tamil Nadu and beyond.

View Founder Profile

Governing leadership