Recognising excellent and exemplary contributions of citizens in their respective fields, Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria presented the State’s highest Civilian Awards 2023 — Assam Bhaibhav, Assam Saurabh and Assam Gaurav to 22 personalities at a programme held at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in the presence of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The Vice President synchronising with the occasion spoke on Assam’s cultural mosaic, which with influences from various communities, have added to the uniqueness of the State.
The Vice President, in his address, said that “Conferment of the highest state civil award of Assam is beyond just a celebration of individual achievement. It is also a reflection of the rich tapestry of Assam, its people and their invaluable contribution to the progress and cultural diversity of a great nation.”
Dhankhar said that Assam, often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the North East,’ is a land of enchanting landscapes and diverse cultures, and a history that spans centuries. “Its fertile plains, lush green hills, and meandering rivers make it a jewel in the crown of India – the great nation,” he added.
The Vice President wished that the spirit of Assam continues to inspire all and hoped that these awards serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for the generations to come.
The Vice President complimented the Assam Chief Minister during his speech. “He has put Assam’s progress on the national platform” and added “Only being bold is not important. Being bold with a rational approach, commitment, and execution is important. Your Chief Minister personifies these virtues. I have no doubt Assam is bound to become a leading State in the nation. It is on its way to becoming one”.
The Assam Chief Minister said he was humbled to have joined the Vice President of India and Governor of Assam in presenting these awards to distinguished personalities. Congratulating the recipients, the Chief Minister said, “Assam is proud of your exemplary services and accomplishments. You are champions; continue to shine”.
The awards, established by the State Government through a Cabinet decision in September 2021, underscores the commitment to recognize exemplary service of the personalities across diverse domains like law, art and culture, sports, social service, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, industry, agriculture, environment and wildlife conservation, etc. Curated by a distinguished committee, chaired by the Chief Minister and ratified by the Cabinet, these awards stand as a testament to the dedication to honouring excellence. Recipients of these awards receive more than just accolades; they are bestowed with medals, citations, monetary rewards, and privileges, including essential medical care and accommodation in guest houses, circuit houses, etc.
Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi was conferred the Assam Baibhav Award, while Dr. Kishan Chand Nauriyal, Elvis Ali Hazarika, Hima Das, and Nadiram Deuri were bestowed with the Assam Saurabh Award. The 17 individuals who were given Assam Gaurav Award are: Ranjit Kumar Gogoi, Parbati Barua, Debajit Changmai, Drona Bhuyan, Neelam Dutta, Anupam Deka, Soumyadeep Datta, Basanta Chiring Phukan, Manendra Deka, Minakshi Chetia, Pokhila Lekthepi, Tenzing Bodosa, Nirmal Dey, Jeen Kumbang Pao, Mary Hassa, Upendra Rabha, and Rahul Gupta.
