Guwahati, Apr 25: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein was conferred the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) by Gauhati University during its 32nd Convocation held in Guwahati on Friday.
The honorary doctorate was awarded in recognition of Mein’s contributions to political leadership, cultural preservation, and social development. Serving as speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1998 and holding ministerial portfolios such as finance, power, and non-conventional energy resources, Mein has played a pivotal role in state governance.
As deputy chief minister since 2016, he was instrumental in transferring hydropower projects from private developers to public sector undertakings, a move considered significant for Arunachal Pradesh’s energy sector. In 2023, he was appointed chairman of the North Eastern Regional Power Committee.
The citation noted Mein’s active role in promoting the Tai Khamti language and culture. As a founding member of the Tai Khamti Heritage and Literary Society, he helped revise the Tai Khamti script and supported efforts to promote traditional folk music and cultural practices. His initiatives included the construction of the Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham) in Namsai, and the establishment of an old age home within the temple complex.
Mein has also been a vocal advocate for regional connectivity and international cooperation. He has consistently pushed for the reopening of the historic Stilwell Road to enhance trade and cultural linkages between Northeast India and Southeast Asia. Under his initiative, Arunachal Pradesh secured Geographical Indication (GI) tags for 18 indigenous products. He also chaired the State Core Committee for the documentation of 220 unsung freedom fighters from the state, in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University.
Acknowledging the honour, Mein expressed gratitude to Gauhati University, calling it “one of the most respected postgraduate institutions in the country.” He said the recognition would further motivate him to continue his work in public service and cultural promotion.
The honorary degree was conferred by Assam governor and Chancellor of Gauhati University, Lakshman Prasad Acharya, in the presence of Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, education minister Ranoj Pegu, chief secretary Ravi Kota, vice-chancellor Nani Gopal Mahanta, and other dignitaries.
Mein thanked the university’s executive council, academic faculty, and administration for the recognition.
