Sikkim University’s Department of Mass Communication has recorded only three admissions for the 2026 batch against a sanctioned intake of 22 students. The sharp decline has raised concerns about the department’s ability to attract students. Professor Mahendra P Lama, who played a key role in establishing the department, described the situation as a sign of institutional decline. The department once attracted students from across India and built strong academic and industry partnerships. However, enrolment has steadily fallen in recent years.
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Key Facts
- University: Sikkim University
- Department: Mass Communication
- 2026 admissions: 3 students
- Sanctioned intake: 22 students
- 2020 admissions: 19 students
- 2025 admissions: 11 students
- Concern raised by: Professor Mahendra P Lama
Admissions See Sharp Decline
Departmental figures cited in a local newspaper show a steady fall in student enrolment.
The department admitted 19 students in 2020. However, the number dropped to 16 in 2021, 12 in 2022 and 11 in 2023.
The decline became more visible after the introduction of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET).
CUET Adds to Admission Challenges
In 2024, nine students initially joined the department. However, some later moved to other central universities through CUET, leaving the department with only five students.
In 2025, the department admitted 11 students through regular admission and counselling. This year, however, only three students enrolled for the 2026 batch.
A former Sikkim University PhD scholar said CUET gives students the opportunity to compare several central universities before making their final choice. Previously, students faced a standalone entrance examination for Sikkim University.
Professor Mahendra P Lama Raises Concern
Professor Mahendra P Lama, who helped establish the Mass Communication department, expressed disappointment over the latest figures.
“How sad. This was one of the most vibrant mass communication centres in the country,” Lama said while responding to a local newspaper report on the decline.
He recalled the significant efforts that went into building the department during its early years. These included modern laboratory facilities, specialised courses for mountain and border regions, and the recruitment of eight faculty members.
Strong Industry Partnerships Once Supported Department
The department also worked closely with media professionals from Sikkim. In addition, it developed collaborations with organisations such as Doordarshan, NDTV and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune.
These initiatives helped the department attract students from different parts of the country.
However, Lama believes the current crisis goes beyond CUET. He pointed to concerns involving faculty strength, infrastructure and the loss of academic and industry partnerships.
Other Departments Attract More Students
The 2026 admission figures show a significant gap between Mass Communication and several other departments at Sikkim University.
Economics has 19 students, while Psychology has 21. Geography and Political Science have 20 and 21 students respectively. Commerce has also recorded 21 students.
By comparison, Mass Communication has enrolled only three students against its intake capacity of 22.
Institutional Concerns Grow
The latest figures have raised broader questions about the department’s future. While CUET may have influenced student choices, the continued decline suggests that institutional factors could also play a role.
Therefore, strengthening faculty, upgrading infrastructure and rebuilding academic and industry partnerships could become important steps if the university wants to restore the department’s earlier appeal.
Q&A
How many students joined Sikkim University’s Mass Communication department in 2026?
Only three students enrolled for the 2026 batch.
What is the department’s sanctioned intake?
The department has a sanctioned intake of 22 students.
How many students enrolled in 2020?
The department recorded 19 admissions in 2020.
Has CUET affected admissions?
Reports suggest CUET has contributed to students choosing other central universities, although Professor Lama believes deeper institutional issues also exist.
What was the department known for?
It was known for strong infrastructure, specialised courses, media partnerships and attracting students from across India.
Location Context
Sikkim University plays an important role in higher education in Northeast India. Its Mass Communication department was also designed to address the unique media and communication needs of mountain and border regions.