Shillong: Olympian and five times boxing world champion MC Mary Kom and first woman chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission, Rose Millian Bathew, were today conferred honorary D.Litt by the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU).
The pugilist from Manipur, who is also coaching the underprivileged children in boxing and an animal rights activist, was conferred with the degree in absentia as she is pursuing with her match in China, while 85-year-old Rose received the award in person.
They were honoured for the contributions they made in their respective fields and further the cause of women.
In her convocation address, Union Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani said the two has brought forth different aspects.
One has made history in her services being the first chairperson of the UPSC, and the other who defied all barriers and made a mark not only in the nation but across the world for her boxing capabilities, said Irani who handed over the degree to Rose.
Over 10,000 students were conferred with degrees in various disciplines in the University.
