Veteran public relations leader LR Sailo has been honoured with the Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika National Award 2025 for his long and dedicated work in promoting peace, trust and understanding in Mizoram and the Northeast. The award was presented to him in Guwahati on Monday by Union Minister for Communications and DoNER Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with other dignitaries.
The award has been given by Sarhad, Pune, a social organisation that works to build strong ties between India’s border areas and the rest of the country. This year’s award is especially meaningful as it marks the birth centenary year of legendary music icon Dr Bhupen Hazarika, who believed that culture, communication and empathy can unite people and heal divisions.
LR Sailo has been widely known as a “Messenger of Peace”. During the difficult years of conflict in Mizoram, before the historic Mizoram Accord, he worked quietly but firmly to use truthful communication as a bridge between the government and the people. At a time when emotions were high and mistrust was common, Sailo played an important role in sharing correct information, building confidence and helping society choose peace over violence and dialogue over conflict. 
Speaking exclusively to Northeast Scoop after receiving the award, Sailo said the honour is not just personal, but a tribute to the role played by media and public relations in Mizoram’s peace journey.
“This award is a recognition of the role of the media and PR of Mizoram and the Northeast in solving conflict situations during difficult times. It honours the power of communication in ending troubles in Mizoram and in helping the state become one of the most peaceful places in the country,” he said.
He also said that he feels grateful that he could contribute to the journey that led to the signing of the Mizoram Accord and the beginning of a new chapter of peace.
“I believe this honour belongs to all the people who worked for peace, who chose dialogue, and who believed that Mizoram can progress only when peace comes first,” Sailo added.
The award citation described Sailo as a dedicated communicator who believed in empathy and honesty. It stated that he used words not only to inform but also to heal, and that his work showed how communication could bring communities together during difficult times. The citation also mentioned that like Bhupen Hazarika, Sailo understood the emotional strength of culture and the value of human connection in rebuilding trust.
The ceremony was held at NEDFi Convention Centre in Guwahati, where several distinguished personalities were honoured. Along with LR Sailo, the recipients included Laishram Mema Devi, Yeshe Dorje Thongchi, Prof David R Syiemlieh, Dr Surjya Kanta Hazarika, and filmmaker Rajni Basumatary.
