Shillong, Jan 25: President of India on Saturday approved conferment of Padma Shri to historian David Reid Syiemlieh for 2025.
The recognition is in the field of literature and education.
Syiemlieh, who turned 72 on January 23, agreed that it is a belated birthday gift to him.
‘I am humbled and elated over the recognition and it is a happy moment for Meghalaya”, Syiemlieh said. I also take this opportunity to thank my research scholars and students”, Syiemlieh said in response to the recognition.
When asked whether it was too late a recognition, Syiemlieh said,” The age is not a factor as many seniors have also received similar awards”.
On Saturday morning, an official from the ministry of home affairs called up Syiemlieh to verify his address.
Later in the evening, he came to know about the award through social media.
Born in undivided Assam, Syiemlieh held the posts of chairman of the Union Public Service Commission of India and Vice chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh.
After his schooling at Dr Graham’s Homes, Kalimpong from 1958 to 1970, Syiemlieh’s graduation with history honours was from St.Edmund’s College, Shillong.
He pursued his education with a master’s degree in history in 1976, MPhil in 1980 and PhD in 1985 from the North Eastern Hill University, Shillong.
Later from 1977 to 1979, he taught undergraduates in St. Edmund’s College and joined the Department of History, NEHU, in 1979. The posts he held included Professor in the Department of History, Dean of Students’ Welfare, Head Department of History, Controller of Examinations, Registrar and Pro-Vice-Chancellor.
