Shillong: Prof David Reid Syiemlieh, a renowned historian from Meghalaya, has been selected to receive the prestigious Padma Shri award for 2025 in recognition of his contributions to literature and education.
Born in undivided Assam, Syiemlieh is a former chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) of India.
He is an accomplished author with numerous books and articles focusing on the history of Northeast India.
Among his notable achievements, Syiemlieh is credited with uncovering the details surrounding the death of Khasi freedom fighter Tirot Sing and identifying the grave of Welsh missionary Thomas Jones in Calcutta, who was the first to arrive in the Khasi Hills.
The Padma Awards, one of India’s highest civilian honours, are given in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
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These awards are conferred in recognition of exceptional service in fields such as art, social work, public affairs, science, medicine, literature, education, sports, and civil services.
The Padma Shri is awarded for distinguished service in any field.
The awards are announced annually on Republic Day and presented by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, typically around March or April.
