In recognition of their excellent and exemplary contributions in their respective fields, Assam governor Gulab Chand Kataria presented the highest State Civilian Awards 2023 that is Assam Bhaibhav, Assam Assam Saurabh and Assam Gaurav to 22 personalities at a function held at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati in presence of vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar and chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The awards established by the Assam government in 2021 through a cabinet decision underscore the commitment to recognize exemplary service of exemplary personalities across diverse domains like law, art and culture, sports, social service, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, industry, agriculture, environment and wildlife conservation among others.
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 and circuit houses.
Former chief justice of the Supreme Court of India Ranjan Gogoi was conferred the Assam Baibhav Award, while four personalities namely Kishan Chand Nauriyal, Elvis Ali Hazarika, Hima Das and Nadiram Deuri were bestowed with the Assam Saurabh Award. Seventeen personalities are given Assam Gaurav Award, they 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.
The event also witnessed a cultural programme by some artistes showcasing the rich cultural heritage and cultural diversity of the state.
Vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar synchronizing with the occasion spoke on Assam’s cultural mosaic, with influences from various communities which adds to the uniqueness of the state.
Chief minister Sarma said he is humbled to have joined the vice president of India and Assam governor in presenting the awards to the distinguished personalities. Congratulating the recipients, the CM said, “Assam is proud of your exemplary services and accomplishments. You are the champions; continue to shine the light”.
Union minister of state for petroleum and natural gas Rameswar Teli, Assam assembly speaker Biswajit Daimari, chief justice of Gauhati High Court Vijay Bishnoi and several other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
