Sangeet Natak Akademi is the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama, It was established by the Government of India in 1952 with the objectives of promoting research in the fields of Indian music, dance and drama and for this purpose, to establish a library and museum; to encourage exchange of ideas and enrichment of techniques between different regions in regard to the arts of music, dance and drama; to publish research on Indian performing arts; to revive and preserve folk traditions in different regions; to sponsor and encourage festivals, seminars and conferences; to give recognition to individual artistes of outstanding achievement; to foster cultural contacts between different regions of the country and with other countries to cooperate with similar Akademis, institutions and associations for the furtherance of these objectives.

JNMDA has its origin in the Manipur Dance College established by the Govt. of India in 1964 and subsequently renamed after India's first Prime Minister.It offers several comprehensive courses in the dance and music of Manipur, as well as other arts like Lai Haraoba and Thanga-ta. The courses are designed as a foundation for professional artistes. The Production unit of the Academy has a rich repertoire of traditional contemporary works .