1. PM Modi inaugurated the Bodoland Mahotsav in New Delhi, reaffirming their commitment to the Bodo community’s progress.
2. He highlighted the transformative impact of the 2020 Bodo Peace Accord on Assam and the Northeast.
3. Modi praised Bodoland’s strides in peace and development, calling it a growth model.
Guwahati, Nov 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the progress and prosperity of the Bodo community while inaugurating the Bodoland Mahotsav in New Delhi on November 15.
Addressing an enthusiastic gathering, PM Modi emphasized the transformative impact of the 2020 Bodo Peace Accord, calling it a foundation for peace and development not only in Assam but across the Northeast.
“The Bodo people have shown the nation how peace and progress can go hand in hand. In just four years, Bodoland has witnessed remarkable growth, and I am delighted to see this transformation,” PM Modi said, thanking the community for fostering harmony and progress.
Path to Peace and Development
PM Modi encouraged youth involved in extremism to take inspiration from the Bodo community. “The Bodo people chose peace over violence, setting an example of how positive change begins with the right decisions,” he noted.
Also Read: NEHU Vice-Chancellor Goes on Leave Amid Escalating Student Protests
He highlighted unprecedented growth in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), supported by a ₹1,500 crore central package. Additionally, the Assam government has invested ₹700 crore and allocated ₹800 crore annually for development projects.
Empowerment and Progress
The Prime Minister spoke of initiatives aimed at economic and social empowerment, including women’s skill development programs and employment generation. “Bodo women are leading the charge in progress. Where violence ends, development takes center stage,” he remarked.
He also highlighted the integration of over 400 surrendered militants from the NDFB into Assam Police, showcasing the region’s shift toward peace. “Today, Bodo families dream of brighter futures and a life of dignity,” he added.
Cultural Renaissance and Tourism
PM Modi celebrated the cultural revival in Bodoland through initiatives like the Bodoland Literary Festival and the hosting of the Durand Cup in Kokrajhar. He praised the Bodo Sahitya Sabha for promoting Bodo literature and language.
He also lauded the exhibition of traditional Bodo products, including GI-tagged items like Aronai and Dokhona. He highlighted government efforts such as the Bodoland Sericulture and Handloom Missions to preserve Bodo heritage.
Tourism was another focal point, with PM Modi citing Manas National Park as an example of transformation. “What was once a dense forest hideout is now a hub of opportunity for the youth,” he said, stressing tourism’s role in job creation.
Honoring Bodo Leaders and Vision for the Northeast
PM Modi paid tribute to Bodo icons like Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma and Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma for preserving Bodo identity and promoting societal reform.
PM Modi underscored the region’s critical role in national development by calling the Northeast “India’s Ashta Lakshmi” (eight forms of wealth). He pointed to major infrastructure achievements, including 12 new medical colleges in Assam, with more planned.
Recalling his 2020 visit to Kokrajhar after the Bodo Peace Accord, PM Modi expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support. “You have embraced me as one of your own. This bond inspires me to ensure Bodoland’s development remains a priority,” he said.
A Vision of Hope
PM Modi concluded with optimism for Bodoland’s future. “The song of peace sung by the Bodo people will echo across India. Together, we will preserve Bodo culture and advance development to greater heights,” he said, extending his wishes for the cultural rally on November 16.
