Prolific writer and former assistant director (culture) of the research department of Arunachal Pradesh R N Koley, has been conferred with the ‘North East India Award-2018’ for his outstanding contribution towards the development of tribal literature.
The coveted award was received by Koley from Meghalaya Governor Tathagata Roy at an impressive function held at Christ School International (CSI) auditorium in Nongsder, Meghalaya, on Saturday.
The award carries a citation and a cash prize of Rs 25,000.
The annual award, instituted in 2016 by the KKLL Foundation in collaboration with CSI, is given away to persons or institutions from the north-eastern region that excel in promotion of peace, social work, tribal literature and youth leadership.
Koley, an ace sociologist and a literary activist, is at present serving the Arunachal Pradesh research directorate as an officer on special duty. He is also holding the post of editor of the Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS).
APLS president YD Thongchi and general secretary Batem Pertin, along with Advisor to Chief Minister, Tai Tagak, have congratulated Koley on winning the prestigious award.
During the function, Koley on behalf of Arunachal’s research department handed over a packet of books to Roy as a token of admiration.
Among others, KKLL Foundation’s managing trustee D Loyi and North East India Award Committee chairman Dr C Verghese were present at the ceremony.