‘BTC’s development means stronger Assam’: Jayanta Malla Baruah at council government’s first anniversary

Assam Finance and Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah on October 5 said the development of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) would strengthen Assam’s overall progress, assuring continued support from the state government for development projects across the region.

Speaking at the first anniversary celebration of the BTC government at the Bodofa Nagar-based BTC Secretariat playground in Kokrajhar, Baruah said the region had significant potential to emerge as a global destination, citing the prevailing peaceful atmosphere and initiatives aimed at empowering the younger generation.

“The development of BTC means strengthening the development of Assam,” Baruah said, adding that the Assam government would continue to extend support for development in every part of the council area.

He said the state government has set a target of spending around Rs 1.5 lakh crore on infrastructure and development projects over the next five years under its ‘Developed Assam’ vision.

“A significant portion of this investment will also be made in the BTC region,” Baruah said, adding that the investment would accelerate development across the council area.

Kokrajhar heliport to boost tourism

The minister said the upcoming heliport in Kokrajhar could give a major boost to tourism and connectivity in the region.

He said the heliport would facilitate air connectivity from Kokrajhar to Guwahati, Rupsi and Bagdogra, opening up new possibilities for tourism and economic activity.

Baruah also pointed to developments across the border in Bhutan, saying the construction of the Mindfulness City in Gelephu could further strengthen tourism prospects in the BTC region.

He said a meeting of leading global industrialists and investors was scheduled to be held in Gelephu on October 25.

The minister further said the completion of the proposed railway connectivity between Kokrajhar and Gelephu would provide another major boost to the region.

‘Peace creating new opportunities’

Baruah said the prevailing peace in the BTC region, coupled with plans to make the younger generation self-reliant, was encouraging.

He praised the BTC leadership for undertaking initiatives across different sectors to provide opportunities and direction to young people.

“If we all extend our cooperation together, the entire BTC region will move further towards development from all directions,” he said.

The minister said the Assam government would continue working with the BTC leadership, asserting that development in the region was integral to the state's broader growth.

Hagrama Mohilary pays tribute to Bodo icons

The first-anniversary programme began in the morning with BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary paying floral tributes at the memorial of Bodo movement leader Upendra Nath Brahma at Thulungapuri in Dotma.

Mohilary later paid tribute at the Shaheed Sujit Narzary Memorial Centre at Mokrapara-Diabari in Kokrajhar and at the statue of Upendra Nath Brahma in front of the BTC Legislative Assembly building.

A cultural programme featuring artistes and cultural groups representing different communities was held from 10 am.

The day-long anniversary programme also included the distribution of land pattas, financial assistance, honours and awards among beneficiaries and achievers.