Cotton University Honours Zubeen Garg with Posthumous D.Litt; CM Hails Assam’s New Era of Education

The 4th convocation of Cotton University was held today at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, in a ceremony graced by the Governor of Assam, the Vice-Chancellor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The event celebrated academic excellence and recognized outstanding achievements in arts and sports.

During the ceremony, the university conferred a posthumous D.Litt. on renowned singer Zubeen Garg. The honour was received on his behalf by his sister, Dr. Palmee Borthakur, who expressed her gratitude to the university and shared an emotional reflection on the occasion. 

She said, “It feels emotional to be here alone to receive this honor on behalf of my brother. Last year, I attended a similar event with him at University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM). Today, while the family feels proud, there is also sorrow that he could not be present to accept it himself. We hope that ongoing investigations bring justice, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.” 

Dr. Borthakur also posted on social media, highlighting Zubeen Garg’s lifelong dedication to people and his compassionate spirit.

The convocation also recognized achievements in sports. Hima Das, Shivangi Sarma, Kushal Chetri, and Pradyun Saikia were awarded the Bachelor of Arts for Sportspersons in Athletics, Swimming, Football, and Cricket, respectively.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed pride in the growth of education in Assam and the achievements of its youth. 

“I am proud to be present at Cotton University’s convocation. Today, I have reached this stage because of the opportunities that have grown in our state over the years. Back in 1985, Assam had very few higher education institutions. Students had to travel to places like Pune and Maharashtra to study, and our state was overshadowed by violence. We never imagined better days would come,” he said.

CM Sarma added, 

“Without saying much, better days have indeed arrived. Medical, engineering, and other educational institutions have grown. During my student days, learning conditions were inadequate, but now there are proper educational environments. Talents like Hima Das exist in Assam, and over 800 young women from Assam are working at companies like Apple. Opportunities have now come for the younger generation, and we must move forward. My first connection is with Cotton College. Students graduating from Cotton must never have negative thoughts. Cottonians always think positively.”

The ceremony reflected both the state’s educational progress and the celebration of artistic and sporting talent, marking a significant moment in Assam’s academic and cultural landscape.

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