Guwahati: Guwahati witnessed a momentous occasion on February 13 as Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankar, honoured 22 distinguished individuals with Assam’s highest civilian awards. The ceremony, held at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra International Auditorium, celebrated the outstanding contributions of awardees across diverse sectors impacting society significantly.
The awards, categorised as Assam Baibhav, Assam Saurav, and Assam Gaurav, were conferred to recognise exemplary services and accomplishments. Vice President Dhankar, addressing the gathering, highlighted the importance of economic nationalism. He emphasised the need for Indians to prioritise local products, supporting Prime Minister Modi’s call to ‘Be vocal about local.’ Dhankar underscored that importing goods takes away job opportunities and blunts entrepreneurship, advocating for a revolutionary shift in consumer choices. VP Dhankar said, “I am so impressed by this programme that I would like to draw your attention to two things. Economic nationalism! The time has come when every Indian should worry about nationalism. What things do we import from abroad – candles, lamps, kites, furniture – are these things to be imported? When we import from abroad, our foreign exchange goes out. When we import, we are taking away work from the hands of our people. When we import we are blunting entrepreneurship. If we all take a pledge that we will follow the principal given to us by the Hon’ble Prime Minister i.e. ‘Be vocal about local’, this will bring revolutionary changes. “
Additionally, he urged businessmen to reconsider sending raw materials outside the country, emphasising the value addition potential within India. Dhankar’s insightful remarks shed light on economic principles crucial for national growth and self-sufficiency.
Reflecting on the awardees, Vice President Dhankar expressed admiration for the diversified fields and the transformative shift in award mechanisms. He praised the move from “part patronage” to “People’s Padma,” acknowledging the authenticity and deserving nature of the recipients.
The Assam Baibhav award, the highest civilian honour in the state, was bestowed upon Justice Ranjan Gogoi, a former Chief Justice of India. Gogoi, the first from the North East to occupy the highest judicial pedestal, received recognition for his eminent contributions.
In the realm of sports, the Assam Saurav Award honoured Hima Das, a young and dynamic athlete who brought glory to Assam and the nation with outstanding achievements in athletics. Her journey, from the rice fields of Assam to the international sporting arena, exemplifies the power of perseverance and determination.
Vice President Dhankar, describing Assam as the ‘Gateway to the Northeast,’ praised the state’s enchanting landscapes, diverse cultures, and centuries-old history. He acknowledged the Ashtalakshmis of the North East, blessed with a confluence of nature and culture, stating that the Look East – Act East Policy is resulting in exponential infrastructure and connectivity growth.
Highlighting Assam’s unique cultural mosaic, influenced by various communities, Dhankar commended the resilience, unity, and harmony evident in every aspect of the land. From the vibrant Bihu dance during harvest festivals to the soul-stirring tunes of traditional Assamese music, Assam’s story encapsulates the essence of unity in diversity, a cornerstone of the great nation.
The prestigious ceremony was attended by Governor Gulab Chand Katariya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and a host of ministers and dignitaries. Their presence underscored the significance of the awards, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of individuals shaping Assam’s cultural and socio-economic landscape.
The event not only celebrated the achievements of the awardees but also served as a platform to advocate for economic nationalism and the promotion of local talent and products. The Assam Baibhav, Assam Saurav, and Assam Gaurav awards symbolise the recognition of excellence and dedication across various fields, contributing to the rich tapestry of Assam’s heritage.
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