Ramkuiwangbe Jene first to receive Padma Shri from Dima Hasao for his extraordinary contributions to society

Three individuals from the Northeast Indian state of Assam are among the 106 recipients of the Padma Awards for the year 2023. Hemoprova Chutia and Hem Chandra Goswami have been recognized for their contributions to the arts, while Ramkhiwangbe Jene has been recognized for his work in the area of social work. Ramkuiwangbe Jene is a Naga native of Assam's Dima Hasao area. 

President Droupadi Murmu presents Padma Shri to Shri Ramkuiwangbe Jeme Newme for Social Work. A social worker from Assam, he propagates indigenous culture and faith. He has also contributed towards women's empowerment and girl education. pic.twitter.com/8QBNy3j0di

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 5, 2023

The 75-year-old is best known for his efforts in education, particularly for children and women in the region. Many followers of the Heraka way of living consider him to be a savior. That is why he has been selected to receive the Padma Shri, the country's fourth highest civilian honor.

Dr. Jene previously worked as a personal assistant to liberation fighter Ranima Gaidinliu. Thus, he is well-known as Ranima's close friend. He is well-liked not only in his neighborhood but also throughout Dima Hasao due to his friendly demeanor.

Dr. Ramkuiwangbe Jene is widely known as the Hero of Heraka among those who know him. He dedicated his entire life to the defense and preservation of the little-known Hereka religion. He was also involved in the transcription of the "Tingwang Hingde," which is known to be the religious text for the Heraka religion.

Haipou Jadanang, a Naga Spiritual Guide and political activist from Manipur, established Heraka. The faith emphasizes the presence of a supreme god known as Tingkao Rangwag. Although the existing religion of the land recognized the presence of this deity as the creator god, the role of the deity in the daily lives of the people was deemed negligible when compared to some of the other deities. Ramkuiwangbe Jene, in addition to defending the Heraka faith, assisted in its propagation through awareness initiatives and programs.

The social worker also established ten primary schools in the region while advocating for women's education and empowerment. The announcement of his name as a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri has both great happiness for the people of the region and for the entire state.