Kokrajhar (Assam) [India], February 4 (HBTV): The Queen Mother of the Kingdom of Bhutan Her Majesty Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck has been conferred the Soldier of Humanity Award 2025 in recognition of her exemplary humanitarian service and compassionate leadership.
The Queen Mother attended the ceremony and accepted the award, which includes a citation, a memento of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, traditional Bodo Aronai, Dokhna, Gwmgra, Endi Sadar, and a cash award of INR 2 lakh.
The honour was bestowed in recognition of her lifelong humanitarian contributions, particularly her visionary leadership of the Tarayana Foundation, which has played a transformative role in rural development, women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, and the preservation of cultural heritage across Bhutan.
The governor of Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Tuesday attended the 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award 2025 ceremony at the Jwhwlao Nileswar Brahma Auditorium at Bodoland University in Kokrajhar.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Acharya said the occasion was more than a felicitation ceremony and described it as a reaffirmation of collective commitment to human dignity, compassion, moral values, and social justice. He said the gracious presence of Her Majesty had further elevated the significance of the event and termed it a privilege to welcome her on behalf of the people of Assam.
The Governor said the presentation of the award was a fitting tribute to a personality who has remained steadfast in her mission of humanitarian service and in championing the cause of human dignity.
He noted that the ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award, instituted in 2004 by the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust, is dedicated to the ideals and philosophy of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, whose life was rooted in sacrifice, courage, and service to humanity. He recalled that Bodofa encouraged social transformation through dialogue and democratic values, upholding freedom, equality, and fraternity as the cornerstones of his vision.
Highlighting Bodofa’s contribution to society, Acharya said that despite severe economic challenges, he emerged as a distinguished leader and devoted his life to social justice, human rights, and inclusive development. He added that Bodofa’s belief that every community has the right to preserve its language, culture, and identity continues to inspire generations.
The Governor also referred to the declaration of March 31 as Chatra Divas (Students’ Day) by the Assam Government as a fitting tribute to Bodofa. He said the naming of a street and the installation of a statue of Bodofa in the national capital have helped bring his legacy to the national level and created greater public awareness about his contributions.
Commending the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust, established in 1999, Acharya said the organisation has carried forward Bodofa’s ideals with dedication, particularly through its efforts for the uplift of marginalised and underprivileged sections of society.
Referring to the conferment of the award on the Queen Mother of Bhutan, the Governor said her lifelong contributions to social welfare, cultural preservation, women’s empowerment, and compassionate leadership embody the true spirit of the ‘Soldier of Humanity’ honour. He added that the award symbolises the deep and enduring ties between India and Bhutan, with Assam as a central link.
He also said Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness resonates closely with Bodofa’s human-centric worldview. Congratulating Her Majesty, the Governor expressed confidence that such recognition would inspire future generations to uphold the ideals of peace, justice, inclusivity, and service to humanity.
Governor of Gelephu Mindfulness City Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, Assam Minister for Handloom and Textiles UG Brahma, Bodoland Territorial Council Chief Executive Member Hagrama Mohilary, former BTC Chief Executive Member Pramod Boro, Member of Parliament Rangwara Narzary, Bodo Sahitya Sabha President Prof. Surath Narzary, dignitaries from Bhutan, academicians, and other distinguished guests were present on the occasion.
Instituted in memory of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, the Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award has been conferred annually since 2004 to honour individuals who have rendered exceptional service to humanity beyond the boundaries of region, nation, and identity.
(ANI)