The Department of Sociology, Jagannath Barooah University, in collaboration with the Assam Sociological Association (ASA), successfully organised the 1st Professor B.N. Borthakur Memorial Lecture on 24th April, 2026 at the university premises. The event was hosted by Mr. Sanju Kakoti, Head of the Department of Sociology.
This inaugural memorial lecture was instituted to honour the legacy and academic contributions of the late Professor B.N. Borthakur, a pioneer in the field of the discipline Sociology
The keynote lecture was delivered by Dr. Partha Pratim Borah, Associate Professor at Birangana Sati Sadhini Rajyik Viswavidyalaya, Golaghat on the topic“Unpacking the Imbroglio: Development and its Discontents in North East India”
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the earthen lamp, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. This was followed by the formal reception and felicitation of the distinguished guests. The presence of Mrs. Mamta Borthakur, spouse of the late Professor B.N. Borthakur, added a deeply personal significance to this inaugural memorial lecture
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Abdul Mutalib, Secretary of the Assam Sociological Association and Assistant Professor at Silapathar College. He extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries, faculty members, and students, setting an engaging and reflective tone for the programme.
The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. Jyoti Prasad Saikia, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Jagannath Barooah University and President of the Assam Sociological Association. In his address, he paid rich tribute to Professor B.N. Borthakur and highlighted his foundational contributions to the growth and institutionalisation of Sociology in Assam. He particularly emphasised Professor Borthakur’s pivotal role in introducing Sociology as a subject in the State Level Eligibility Test (SLET), a landmark step that significantly strengthened the discipline in the region.
The speaker was formally introduced by Miss Anannya Buragohain, faculty member of the Department of Sociology, who highlighted Dr. Borah’s academic achievements and research contributions.
Dr. Partha Pratim Borah delivered an insightful and thought-provoking lecture on “Unpacking the Imbroglio: Development and its Discontents in North East India.” His lecture critically examined dominant models of development in the North East, interrogating the contradictions between state-driven development policies and the lived realities of local communities. He highlighted issues of marginalisation, uneven development, and socio-political tensions, encouraging the audience to rethink conventional narratives of progress through a sociological lens.
The lecture was followed by an engaging interaction session, where students, faculty members, and participants from various colleges actively interacted with the speaker. The session witnessed thoughtful questions and critical reflections on issues of development, regional disparities, and policy implications in the North East. Dr. Borah responded to the queries with clarity and depth, making the discussion intellectually enriching and participatory.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Madhujya Handique, Assistant Professor of the Department of Sociology, Jagannath Barooah University. He expressed sincere gratitude to the esteemed speaker, dignitaries, organisers, and participants for their valuable presence and contributions in making the event a success.
The 1st Professor B.N. Borthakur Memorial Lecture was a resounding success and a fitting tribute to a distinguished academician who dedicated his life to the promotion of Sociology in Assam. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from Principals, Assistant Professors, and students from various colleges, reflecting a strong spirit of academic collaboration and engagement.
It is hoped that this lecture series will continue to inspire future generations to engage deeply with the social sciences and carry forward Professor Borthakur's enduring legacy.
