
Meghalaya: Historian David Syiemlieh Honoured with Padma Shri for Contributions to Literature and Education
Shillong: Renowned historian and academician David Syiemlieh has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri for his exceptional contributions to literature and education.
Recognized for his lifelong dedication to academia, Syiemlieh’s work has left an indelible mark on historical research and education in India.
A former chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Syiemlieh has authored and edited numerous books, shedding light on the history and culture of Northeast India.
He has also served as a member of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) in New Delhi and held the position of vice-chancellor at Rajiv Gandhi University in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
Expressing his congratulations, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the recognition as a testament to Syiemlieh’s invaluable contributions. “This recognition is a testament to his invaluable contributions to literature, education, and the broader cultural landscape. We are incredibly proud of Prof. Syiemlieh’s remarkable achievements, and his success continues to inspire us all,” Sangma said in a statement.
Syiemlieh’s influence extends beyond academia, as he served as the honorary director of the Indian Council of Social Science Research–North Eastern Regional Centre (ICSSR-NERC).
At North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong, he imparted knowledge on subjects such as modern Indian history, capitalism and imperialism, and the history of Christianity in the region.
The Padma Shri award celebrates Syiemlieh’s lifelong commitment to preserving and enriching the cultural and historical narratives of India, particularly in the Northeast. His contributions continue to inspire future generations of historians and scholars.