Gauhati University confers honorary doctorate on Arunachal Deputy CM Chowna Mein for leadership and cultural legacy
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein was conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) by Gauhati University during its 32nd Convocation ceremony on Friday, recognizing his exceptional contributions to political leadership, cultural preservation, and regional development.
The degree was presented by Assam Governor and Gauhati University Chancellor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, in the presence of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu, Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta, and other dignitaries.
Chowna Mein’s political journey began in 1998 as Speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. He has since held several key portfolios, including Finance, Power, and Non-Conventional Energy Resources. As Deputy Chief Minister since 2016, he played a critical role in transferring hydropower projects from private developers to public sector undertakings, reshaping the state’s energy infrastructure. His leadership in regional energy cooperation was further acknowledged with his appointment as Chairman of the Northeastern Regional Power Committee in 2023.
The citation also celebrated Mein’s enduring dedication to cultural preservation. A founding member of the Tai Khamti Heritage and Literary Society, he was instrumental in reviving the Tai Khamti language, script, and traditional music. His vision led to the construction of the Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham) in Namsai and the establishment of an old age home within its complex.
In the sphere of regional connectivity, Mein has strongly advocated for reopening the historic Stilwell Road to boost India-ASEAN relations through Arunachal Pradesh. He has also played a key role in securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for 18 indigenous products and led the documentation of 220 unsung heroes from Arunachal Pradesh in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University, which he helped elevate to a central university.
Expressing gratitude upon receiving the honor, Mein said, “It is an honour to be acknowledged by Gauhati University, the premier institution of higher education in Northeast India. I accept this recognition with gratitude and humility.” He added that the award deeply motivates him to continue his work in public service and the preservation of cultural heritage.
The degree reflects Gauhati University’s acknowledgment of leaders who embody the values of progress, identity, and community development — ideals that Chowna Mein has consistently championed throughout his career.
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