Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Assam for a two-day visit, said on Monday that the entire northeastern region, once neglected by the Centre, has been developing at a rapid pace under the BJP-led government, adding that he himself has become the region’s brand ambassador.
While attending the Jhumoir dance programme at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati, PM Modi emphasized the transformative journey of Assam and the Northeast under his leadership.
“Once, Assam and the Northeast were neglected, but today, Modi has become the brand ambassador of the region,” the Prime Minister stated.
PM Modi recalled his overnight stay at Kaziranga National Park, making him the only Prime Minister to have done so.
“I am the only Prime Minister of this country who has spent a night at Kaziranga National Park,” he said.
Highlighting the government’s recognition of Assamese heritage, PM Modi noted that Assamese has been granted Classical Language status, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the people. Additionally, Charaideo Maidam has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, further cementing Assam’s historical significance.
The Prime Minister also honoured Lachit Borphukan, the legendary Ahom warrior who had long been denied national recognition.
“To commemorate Lachit Borphukan’s legacy, a 125-foot statue of the 16th-century Ahom General has been built in Assam. The government has also launched Jana Jatiya Gaurav Divas to honor the contributions of Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to service and progress, PM Modi emphasized the BJP government’s dedication to the welfare and development of tribal communities.
He also outlined several significant government welfare programmes, particularly focusing on the upliftment of rural areas and tea garden workers.
“To ensure better maternal care, the BJP government has provided financial assistance to pregnant women working in tea gardens. Furthermore, with the construction of 350 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and over 100 model tea garden schools, Assam is expected to witness notable improvements in healthcare and education,” he stated.
PM Modi highlighted the rapid development of the Northeast and expressed optimism about Assam’s future. He conveyed his sincere gratitude to the performers for their dedication, expressing confidence that the Jhumoir dance programme would receive widespread recognition.
The Prime Minister’s speech also underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to Assam’s cultural, social, and economic development.
His vision includes propelling Assam and the Northeast into a new era of prosperity and global recognition. He lauded the state’s cultural and developmental progress and expressed anticipation for another historic event akin to the record-breaking Bihu dance performance in 2023.
He acknowledged the Jhumoir dance event’s ambition to set a new world record, recalling the remarkable achievement in 2023 when 11,500 artistes performed the Bihu dance, securing a place in world records.
“I was eagerly waiting for another such grand event,” he remarked, congratulating the people of Assam for their efforts in organizing the event.
The Prime Minister extended his appreciation to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the people of Assam, emphasizing that such cultural showcases enhance the pride of both Assam and India.
Notably, the event has garnered international attention, with over 60 ambassadors in attendance, underscoring the region’s growing global recognition.
(Inputs from IANS)
