Bhutan Queen Mother Honoured with 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award 2025

In a significant recognition of humanitarian leadership and cross-border goodwill, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, was honoured with the 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award 2025. The award ceremony was held in February 2026 at Bodoland University, Kokrajhar, Assam. The event was attended by Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Governor of Assam. The award recognises her lifelong humanitarian service and compassionate leadership, especially through her work in social development and cultural preservation.

Background: The Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award

The Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award was instituted in 2004 by the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust. The award is named after Upendra Nath Brahma, popularly known as Bodofa, a revered Bodo leader and social reformer.

The award upholds Bodofa’s ideals of sacrifice, courage, social justice, and service to humanity. It is conferred on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to human welfare, peace, and inclusive development.

Award Ceremony and Dignitaries

The 22nd edition of the award ceremony took place at Bodoland University in Kokrajhar, a region closely associated with the legacy of Upendra Nath Brahma. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya graced the occasion and highlighted the relevance of Bodofa’s philosophy in today’s society.

During his address, the Governor also referred to the decision of the Government of Assam to declare 31 March as Chatra Divas (Students’ Day), commemorating the contributions of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma and inspiring future generations to follow his path of service and leadership.

Award Highlights and Prize Details

The award presented to the Queen Mother of Bhutan included:

• A citation
• A memento of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma
• Traditional Bodo Aronai
• Dokhna, Gwmgra, and Endi Sadar
• A cash prize of ₹2 lakh

These elements symbolised respect for Bodo culture and the values represented by the award.

Recognition of Humanitarian Contributions

Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck was honoured for her lifelong humanitarian work and visionary leadership of the Tarayana Foundation. Under her leadership, the foundation has played a major role in:

• Rural development
• Women’s empowerment
• Education and healthcare initiatives
• Preservation of Bhutan’s cultural heritage

Her work has significantly improved the lives of vulnerable communities, especially women and children, in Bhutan’s remote and rural regions.

Significance of the Honour

The conferment of the award on the Queen Mother of Bhutan highlights the shared cultural and humanitarian values between India and Bhutan. It also reflects the importance of people-centric development, compassion, and inclusive growth in addressing social challenges.

The recognition further strengthens India–Bhutan relations, rooted in mutual respect, cultural ties, and cooperation in social development.