Dr MQ Khan, the principal of Dera Natung Government College (DNGC) in Itanagar, has superannuated from service after a distinguished career spanning 37 years. A farewell programme was organised at the DNGC golden jubilee auditorium to celebrate his long and illustrious career, attended by people from all walks of life, including his former students, well-wishers, and colleagues. Hailing from Sitamarhi in Bihar, Dr Khan came to Arunachal Pradesh in 1989 and has since been teaching English in government colleges across the state.
During his career, he has written 16 books, 10 research papers, 15 articles, and 40 poems. He also served as a member of the drafting committee for the Arunachal Pradesh Education Act, 2010, and conducted result-oriented free coaching for UPSC, APPSC, and other competitive examinations. Dr Khan’s outstanding contribution to higher education in the state has been recognised with several awards, including the Outstanding College Teacher’s Award by the government and the Teacher Research Award from the Indo-American Centre for International Studies (IACIS), formerly ASRC, Hyderabad.
Padma Shri awardee YD Thongchi described Dr Khan as a true servant of the people of Arunachal, whose contribution to education and literature will always be remembered. Former minister Tater Kipa, who is also a former student of Dr Khan, paid glowing tributes to his teacher, saying that Dr Khan has played an important role in the growth of DNGC. Former ANSU leader Techi Nera said generations of students would forever remain grateful to Dr Khan for imparting quality education and being a friend, guide, and mentor to many.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Khan said Arunachal is his home and will always remain so, expressing his deep attachment to the state and its people. He revealed that he had declined opportunities to join government service in his home state and Delhi, but chose to stay in Arunachal due to his love for the state and its people. Dr Khan’s family members were also present on the occasion.
