The Government of Assam presented the prestigious Assam Civilian Awards 2024 in a grand ceremony held at the Srimanta Sankardev International Auditorium, Guwahati. A total of 20 individuals and community organizations were honoured across three categories — Assam Baibhav, Assam Saurav, and Assam Gaurav — for their outstanding contributions in fields ranging from defence and science to art, sports, and grassroots service.
Assam Baibhav 2024
The highest civilian honour of the state, Assam Baibhav, was conferred on Lt. Gen. Rana Pratap Kalita (Retd.), former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Eastern Command. Recognized for his distinguished military service, Kalita becomes the fourth recipient of this honour since its inception in 2021. The award includes a citation, medal, cash prize, and lifelong medical benefits.
Assam Saurav 2024
Six individuals received the Assam Saurav award for excellence in science, culture, environmental work, and sports:
- Subramanian Ramadorai (former CEO of TCS), for contributions to IT and skill development
- Dr. Bappi Paul and Dr. Purabi Saikia, for achievements in science and environment
- Dwipen Baruah, acclaimed playback singer, for his role in promoting Assamese music
- Hemanta Dutta, theatre artist, for his work in Assamese mobile theatre
- Uma Chetry, cricketer, for her success in women’s cricket (to be presented at her residence)
Assam Gaurav 2024
Thirteen individuals and three institutions were recognised with the Assam Gaurav award for community development, cultural preservation, innovation, and sports. Notable awardees include:
- Phuleswari Dutta, for wildlife conservation
- Meenakshi Das, for achievements in motorsports
- Parthib Sundar Gogoi, for football
- Haridas Das and Dhirendra Nath Paul, for craftsmanship in brass and terracotta
- Upamanyu Borkakoty and David Pratim Gogoi, for entrepreneurship
- Choran Ahem (Nagaon), Barekuri village (Tinsukia), and Hati Bondhu NGO (Nagaon), for their collective work in eco-tourism and wildlife protection
Each Assam Gaurav award carries a medal, citation, and ₹3 lakh cash prize.
Ceremony Highlights
The investiture ceremony was attended by Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, ministers, senior bureaucrats, and other dignitaries. Speaking at the event, CM Sarma said, “The awardees represent the pride and promise of Assam. Their work not only uplifts our state but also inspires our people.”
He added that the government would continue to honour individuals and groups whose work brings lasting impact to society.