Assam Government's Initiative to Promote Badarpur Fort as Heritage Tourism Site

The Assam government is actively working to conserve and promote Badarpur Fort as a significant heritage tourism destination. With a budget allocation of Rs 50 lakh for restoration efforts, the fort's historical importance is being emphasized, particularly its connection to Kachari King Govinda Chandra. The government aims to maintain the site's authenticity while enhancing its appeal to tourists. Local traditions suggest the fort's role in the historic Badarpur Treaty, further adding to its significance. The initiative includes plans for future tourism development in collaboration with the Directorate of Archaeology, ensuring the fort's rich history is preserved and showcased.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 7, 2026, 16:03 IST

Efforts to Preserve Badarpur Fort

File image of Badarpur Fort (Photo - @shok14 / X)

Guwahati, July 7: The Assam administration has announced a strategic plan aimed at conserving and enhancing the historic Badarpur Fort located in the Sribhumi district. Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog informed the assembly that this archaeological site has the potential to become a key heritage tourism attraction in the state.

In response to a query from BJP MLA Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha during the Budget Session, Neog stated that conservation efforts have already commenced at the fort, with future tourism projects to be developed in collaboration with the Directorate of Archaeology, ensuring the site's historical integrity is maintained.

"Badarpur Fort, positioned on the left bank of the Barak River at Badarpur Ghat, is a site of significant cultural and historical importance. Constructed during the reign of Kachari King Govinda Chandra, it features high-quality burnt bricks and is closely linked to the history of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom," the minister elaborated.

She emphasized that the fort's unique architecture, military defense system, and historical relevance render it one of Assam's notable heritage sites with substantial tourism potential.

Neog mentioned that the monument is safeguarded under the Assam Ancient Monuments and Records Act of 1959, with its upkeep managed by the Directorate of Archaeology.

Detailing the government's actions, the minister revealed that Rs 50 lakh was allocated for the conservation, restoration, and protection of the fort during the 2023-24 fiscal year, and this work has already been completed.

"The Directorate of Archaeology, Assam, is responsible for the fort's protection and maintenance. The allocated funds for the 2023-24 financial year have been utilized for its conservation and restoration, which is now finished," she stated.

Neog reiterated the government's dedication to preserving Assam's historical sites while fostering sustainable tourism.

"Future tourism development initiatives at Badarpur Fort will be executed in collaboration with the Directorate of Archaeology, adhering to existing laws and government policies. Our goal is to maintain the site's historical authenticity while promoting it as a significant heritage tourism destination," she added.

The minister also highlighted that local traditions and historical accounts indicate that the historic Badarpur Treaty was signed at this fort, enhancing its importance.

Purkayastha, while raising the issue in the assembly, pointed out that the fort's history has often been misinterpreted. He argued that historical evidence supports that it was built during the reign of Kachari King Govinda Chandra, contrary to the belief that it was constructed by Shah Badduruddin.

He urged the government to consider renaming the monument to Govinda Chandra Memorial Fort, erect a statue of the Dimasa ruler, and provide a comprehensive historical account for visitors.

Situated on the left bank of the Barak River at Badarpur Ghat, the fort is recognized as a significant archaeological site in southern Assam, associated with both the Dimasa Kachari kingdom and the historic Badarpur Treaty.