Guwahati: The Assam Civilian Awards—Assam Baibhav, Assam Saurav, and Assam Gaurav—stand as the state’s highest recognitions for individuals and institutions who have made exemplary contributions to society across diverse fields. Instituted in 2021 by the Government of Assam, these honours reflect a growing commitment to celebrate excellence, dedication, and social impact at both grassroots and national levels.
Origins and Purpose
Launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the awards were conceptualised to identify and reward those who have significantly contributed to Assam’s development, culture, and well-being. Unlike many conventional awards that focus solely on urban achievers, the Assam Civilian Awards are inclusive by design—recognising not only high-profile professionals but also lesser-known contributors from rural areas and indigenous communities.
The selection process involves detailed recommendations from the public and government departments, reviewed by a high-level committee, ensuring that the awards maintain credibility, transparency, and reach.
Categories of Assam Civilian Awards
- Assam Baibhav – This is the highest civilian award of Assam, conferred upon individuals whose work has brought exceptional pride to the state, often at the national or international level. It covers fields such as public service, defence, governance, health, education, and the arts.
- Assam Saurav – This is the second-highest honour, awarded to people who have demonstrated outstanding contributions in specific areas such as science and technology, sports, culture, industry, and social development. Many recipients of this award are regarded as national leaders in their fields.
- Assam Gaurav – Designed to celebrate grassroots achievements, this is the third tier of civilian honour. It recognises community leaders, social workers, farmers, artisans, environmentalists, educators, and others whose work directly improves lives in Assam’s towns and villages. This category also includes institutions and NGOs doing exceptional work in public service and conservation.
Award Benefits
Each award includes a citation, a medal, and a cash prize. In addition to formal recognition, awardees now receive a unique state benefit: complimentary accommodation for up to 15 days a year at Assam Bhawans and Circuit Houses across India, to support their travel for work, medical care, or personal needs.
Annual Ceremony and Impact of the Assam Civilian Awards
The awards are conferred at a formal state-level investiture ceremony held in Guwahati, often attended by the Governor of Assam, the Chief Minister, cabinet ministers, senior officials, and invited dignitaries. The ceremony is a celebration not just of individual achievement but of Assam’s collective progress and cultural pride.
In a short span since its inception, the Assam Civilian Awards have emerged as a powerful platform to spotlight unsung heroes alongside nationally recognised figures—reaffirming the state’s belief that real change often begins at the grassroots.
Looking Ahead
As Assam continues to evolve and grow, the civilian awards are expected to expand in visibility and scope, further encouraging citizens to serve their communities with innovation, compassion, and integrity. By recognising excellence in all its forms, the Assam Civilian Awards are shaping a more inclusive and inspired vision of leadership for the future.
