In 1981, the Thirumuruga Kirupananda Variyar Thavathiru Sundara Swamigal (TKVTSS) Medical Educational and Charitable Trust was established, marking the inception of Vinayaka Missions. Shortly afterward, in 1982, the Founder-Chairman, Dr. A Shanmugasundaram, established the Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy in Salem, the pioneering institution of Vinayaka Missions. In 2001, the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, conferred the “Deemed to be University” status on Vinayaka Missions in recognition of its excellence, adherence to the highest academic standards, and provision of top-notch infrastructural facilities aimed at achieving pre-eminence in education. This recognition elevated Vinayaka Missions to become the Vinayaka Missions Research Foundation (VMRF), the 48th University in India, as per the recommendations of the UGC under section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956.
The University fosters a conducive environment for students to excel in their chosen fields of specialization. Currently, nearly 15,000 students are enrolled in various constituent colleges, with approximately 2,000 professionals in Medical, Dental, Homoeopathy, Paramedical, Engineering, Management, as well as arts and science graduates, graduating from VMRF campuses each year. The Trust creates a dynamic environment that fosters rational, critical, and creative development, facilitating the fullest possible intellectual and personal growth.
Close to 5,000 staff members, including renowned faculty and technical experts, are dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience, making study at VMRF institutions highly rewarding. The success of VMRF is attributed to its highly qualified and experienced faculty, committed to delivering superior education. VMRF is unique in India for establishing three medical colleges, one dental college, and two engineering colleges, in addition to nursing and homoeopathy colleges.