On Thursday, seven 6 individuals from Northeast and one from Kurseong, Darjeeling district were honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri awards, recognising their outstanding contributions across diverse fields. Among the esteemed recipients is Dr. Eklabya Sharma, a distinguished scientist hailing from Darjeeling district’s Kurseong, who has been lauded for his groundbreaking work in science and technology spanning over a decade.
The Civil Investiture Ceremony-II, held in the resplendent Darbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhawan, witnessed the conferring of the Padma Shri awards by President Droupadi Murmu. Standing alongside national recognition were six individuals from the Northeastern region of India, each signalling their remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication.
Sikkim’s Jordan Lepcha received accolades for his steadfast endeavours in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Lepcha tribe, showcased through his expertise in traditional hat weaving and bamboo crafting spanning a quarter-century. Additionally, Meghalaya’s Kong Silbi Passah and Tripura’s Smriti Rekha Chakma were celebrated for their significant contributions to the realm of art, enriching the cultural landscape of the region.
Nagaland’s Sano Vamuzo and Meghalaya’s Dr. Sangthankima were honoured for their distinguished service in the field of social work, exemplifying compassion and commitment to societal welfare. Dr. Sangthankima’s tireless efforts in aiding orphans, mental health patients, and destitute individuals have left an indelible mark on their communities.
Breaking barriers and challenging norms, Assam’s Parbati Barua, India’s first female elephant mahout, was honoured for her exceptional work in social and animal welfare, a journey that began at the tender age of 14. Her resilience and determination serve as a beacon of inspiration for societal inclusivity and progress.
Their recognition not only honours their individual achievements but also serves as a testament to the limitless potential of human endeavour, inspiring generations to strive for greatness.
