Eminent Kokborok writer, linguist and educationist Naresh Chandra Debbarma received the Padma Shri award from President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi. Honoured for his lifelong contribution to preserving and promoting Kokborok language, literature and culture, the recognition has brought pride to Tripura and its indigenous communities.
Eminent Kokborok writer, linguist and educationist Naresh Chandra Debbarma was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri award by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremonial function held in New Delhi on Tuesday. The honour was bestowed in recognition of his lifelong contribution to the preservation, development and promotion of the Kokborok language, literature and cultural heritage.
The Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, acknowledges individuals who have made distinguished contributions in various fields. Debbarma’s recognition highlights his decades-long efforts to strengthen Kokborok, the language spoken by a large section of Tripura’s indigenous communities.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Kokborok literature, Debbarma has dedicated his life to promoting indigenous language education, literary development and cultural preservation. Through his work as a writer, linguist and educator, he has played a significant role in ensuring that the language and traditions of Tripura’s tribal communities continue to thrive and gain wider recognition.
The award has been welcomed across Tripura, with political leaders, scholars and members of the indigenous community expressing pride and appreciation for the national honour. Many described the recognition as a historic moment for the state and a testament to the importance of preserving indigenous languages and cultures.
Congratulating Debbarma on the achievement, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said the award was a matter of immense pride for the people of the state. In a message, he stated that the eminent Kokborok litterateur and educationist had received the Padma Shri in recognition of his lifelong contribution to the preservation and development of the Kokborok language, literature and culture.
The Chief Minister further noted that Debbarma’s achievement reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tripura and serves as an inspiration for future generations to engage in the study, promotion and preservation of indigenous languages.
Several ministers of the Tripura government, BJP Tripura State President Abhishek Debroy and other political and social leaders also extended their congratulations to the veteran scholar. They praised his dedication to safeguarding Kokborok and acknowledged his role in bringing national attention to the linguistic and cultural identity of Tripura’s indigenous people.
People close to Debbarma said that the Padma Shri recognition would encourage young scholars, writers and researchers to work towards the preservation of indigenous languages and cultural traditions. They expressed hope that the honour would further strengthen efforts to promote Kokborok literature and education in the years ahead.
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With this prestigious national recognition, Naresh Chandra Debbarma’s legacy as a leading advocate of Kokborok language, literature and culture has been further cemented, marking a proud milestone for Tripura and its indigenous communities.
