Gauhati University confers honorary doctorate on Arunachal deputy CM Chowna Mein

Chowna Mein Conferred Honorary Doctorate by Gauhati University

In a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein was awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) by Gauhati University during its 32nd Convocation held in Guwahati on April 25, 2025.

The honorary degree recognizes Mein’s outstanding contributions as a political leader, cultural ambassador, and advocate for religious harmony. The citation celebrated his tireless efforts in promoting the Tai language and Tai Khamti culture, alongside his longstanding commitment to public service and socio-cultural development.

Chowna Mein’s distinguished political career spans several decades, beginning as Speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1998. Since 1999, he has held various ministerial portfolios and has served as the Deputy Chief Minister since 2016, overseeing critical departments such as Finance and Power. His leadership in the hydropower sector, particularly in transferring stalled projects from private companies to central public sector units, was especially lauded.

Beyond governance, Mein’s cultural initiatives have left a lasting impact. He played a vital role in preserving and revitalizing the Tai Khamti heritage by founding the Tai Khamti Heritage and Literary Society and revising the Tai tonal script. His vision also led to the construction of the Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham) in Namsai District, a significant Buddhist landmark, along with an old age home within its premises.

The citation further highlighted his efforts in advocating for the reopening of the historic Stilwell Road, securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for 18 indigenous products, hosting the C-20 Summit 2023 in Namsai, and documenting the stories of 220 unsung heroes from Arunachal’s history in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University.

Through this honor, Gauhati University acknowledged Chowna Mein’s exceptional contributions to the Northeast’s development and cultural preservation.