Guwahati, Jan 17: The Assam Government has revealed a series of state awards for the years 2025 and 2026, aimed at acknowledging exceptional contributions in various fields including music, literature, education, theatre, and cinema.

This initiative underscores the state's ongoing dedication to celebrating individuals who have significantly enriched Assam's cultural and intellectual heritage.

For 2026, the prestigious Artist Award (Silpi Bota) will be awarded to the distinguished singer Dhanada Pathak and the late celebrated musician Samar Hazarika, who will receive the honour posthumously.

The Silpi Bota is among the highest accolades in the state for artists who have made enduring impacts on Assamese art and culture. The award ceremony is set to take place in February.

In literature, the esteemed writer Maneshwar Deuri has been chosen for the Krishnakanta Handique Memorial Award for 2025, which commemorates the legacy of the renowned scholar and literary figure.

The Gopinath Bardoloi National Integrity Award for 2025 will be presented to the prominent educationist Dr. Amolendu Chakravarty, in recognition of his contributions to education and national unity.

In theatre, the notable artist Karuna Deka has been selected for the Natasurya Phani Sharma Award for 2025.

Acclaimed filmmaker Arup Manna will receive the Bhabendranath Saikia Award for 2025, while film personality Abani Ranjan Pathak has been chosen for the Biju Phukan Award for the same year.

In addition to these significant awards, the state government has announced comprehensive financial and social support for artists through various welfare initiatives.

A total of 83 artists have been approved for the regular Silpi Pension for the financial year 2025–26. Furthermore, three differently-abled artists will also receive the regular Silpi Pension under a special category.

The government has also sanctioned 170 beneficiaries for the annual Silpi Sanman, including three differently-abled recipients in the same category.

To assist the families of deceased artists, 26 individuals have been selected for the regular Family Pension, and five families will receive one-time special financial aid following the loss of artists.

Officials have indicated that these awards and welfare initiatives reflect the Assam government's broader vision to safeguard and promote the state's rich cultural legacy while ensuring dignity and financial stability for its artists and their families.