New Delhi (India) July 29 : With India opening up its door to the ASEAN countries through its North-eastern region of India after decades of political turmoil, it is indeed a positive development that can usher in the much-deserved development. With the government of India declaring the Act East policy in the region, a lot of action is happening finally.
In this article, I would like to introduce a highly versatile and dynamic bureaucrat who has been working tirelessly for the development NER and for the cause of greater cultural and economic integration of the eighth NE states, fondly named the ‘Ashtalaksmi’ by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. We are talking about Som Kamei, a senior bureaucrat known for his dedication and ability to lead from the front. Presently working as the Planning adviser in North Eastern Council (NEC) under the Ministry of Development for NER (DoNER), a prestigious post based in Shillong. Som Kamei had earlier served as Director of the prestigious North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) and has worked as Postmaster General in Department of Post at Dibrugarh (Assam), and at Dimapur (Nagaland).
Apart from his distinguished career as a bureaucrat, Som is a renowned author who has been writing consistently on North East India and its rich history, culture and social issues. Som Kamei is a distinguished author and bureaucrat renowned for his insightful exploration of North East India’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. His most notable work, “Rani Gaidinliu: The Legendary Freedom Fighter from the North East India”, offers a compelling narrative of one of the region’s most revered figures in the struggle for Indian independence.
Som Kamei was born and raised in the vibrant and diverse cultural milieu of Imphal valley in Manipur state in North East India. Being the son of eminent historian late Prof. Gangmumei Kamei, he developed an early interest in the region’s history and tribal traditions. Som Kamei academic journey took him through some of India’s most esteemed institutions, where he pursued degrees in Sociology and Cultural studies. His deep-rooted connection to the region, combined with his rigorous academic training, laid the foundation for his future work.
Kamei’s career has been marked by a passionate commitment to documenting and preserving the histories of North East India’s tribal communities. His work spans various genres, including academic research, historical narratives, and cultural studies. However, it is his book-Rani Gaidinliu: The Legendary freedom Fighter from the North East, that has garnered widespread acclaim for its profound impact on the understanding of India’s freedom struggle.
Rani Gaidinliu, often referred to as the ‘Rebel Queen,’ was a formidable leader and freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in the resistance against British colonial rule in Northeast India. Kamei’s book meticulously chronicles her life, her leadership in the fight against colonial oppression, and her enduring legacy. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Kamei brings to light the significant yet often overlooked contributions of Gaidinliu and her people.
Kamei’s work has significantly contributed to the recognition of North East India’s role in the broader narrative of Indian independence. His portrayal of Rani Gaidinliu has not only educated readers about her vital contributions but has also fostered a greater appreciation for the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Kamei’s efforts have inspired a new generation to delve into the history of tribal leaders and the complex dynamics of the Indian independence movement.
As of the latest updates, Kamei continues to work on projects that explore the histories of other unsung heroes from North East India. He is also involved in initiatives aimed at promoting the preservation of tribal languages and traditions, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of the region is maintained for future generations. Currently his position as the Planning adviser in North Eastern Council (NEC) under the Ministry for Development of NE Region (DoNER) have placed him in a pivotal position to share his knowledge and experience in framing developmental policies for the region he loves so much.
Som Kamei is a member of the Indian Postal Services. He is an alumnus of Hindu college, Delhi University and did his Masters and MPhil in Sociology from JNU, New Delhi. Outside of his professional pursuits, Kamei is known for his engagement with local communities and his advocacy for the rights and recognition of tribal populations.
He enjoys traveling through the North East, immersing himself in the region’s diverse cultures, and participating in dialogues about historical preservation and cultural sustainability. Som is currently based in Shillong and lives with his wife and three children. Som Kamei stands as a pivotal figure in the realm of academic scholarship on North East India. Through his meticulous research and passionate storytelling, he has shed light on the significant contributions of figures like Rani Gaidinliu, enriching our understanding of India’s multifaceted struggle for independence and the diverse cultures that shaped the making of modern India.
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