Assam Celebrates 79th Independence Day with Promising Developments
Vibrant Celebrations Across Assam
Guwahati: The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with enthusiasm throughout Assam, where Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with four cabinet ministers, showcased the state's accomplishments and future initiatives.
During the main event held in Khanapara, Guwahati, the Chief Minister revealed a significant 60% reduction in the overall crime rate over the past three years. The number of crimes per lakh population decreased from 349 in 2020 to 139 in 2024, while dacoity incidents plummeted from 1,555 to a mere 14.
He also highlighted Assam's economic growth, noting that the Gross State Domestic Product has risen from Rs 4.09 lakh crore in 2020–21 to an estimated Rs 7.25 lakh crore by 2025–26, with per capita income doubling to Rs 2.26 lakh. Emphasizing peace initiatives, he mentioned that over 11,000 militants from ULFA, NDFB, and other groups have surrendered since 2021.
The Chief Minister expressed, “Our vision is an insurgency-free Assam, where every young person chooses education over violence and progress over conflict.”
In Jorhat, Agriculture Minister Atul Bora announced a significant increase in farm exports, projecting growth from Rs 4,000 crore in 2022–23 to Rs 10,000 crore by 2026–27.
He stated, “During my tenure, we have distributed 191,000 pieces of agricultural equipment, benefiting over 21 lakh farmers through the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi. Even in drought-like conditions, these initiatives have provided essential support. Assam’s agricultural exports have surged, with tea, pineapple, ginger, turmeric, and lemon leading the charge.”
At the SP Parade Ground in Nalbari, PHED Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah emphasized the need to protect indigenous culture.
He remarked, “Evictions aimed at safeguarding the rights of indigenous people must be resolute. We will take action to protect our culture wherever it is threatened. Under our administration, eviction drives will persist despite political opposition,” while also discussing ongoing development projects in the area.
At Kachari Maidan in Biswanath Chariali, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu paid tribute to freedom fighter Kanaklata Baruah and outlined significant upcoming projects.
He noted, “Biswanath played a crucial role in India’s Independence through the sacrifice of Kanaklata Baruah. Today, the four-lane highway here has greatly improved connectivity with Guwahati, significantly reducing travel time. Soon, a world-class university will be established in her honor, along with a new medical college and engineering college. These institutions will lay the groundwork for the district’s future development.”
In Morigaon, Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika advocated for the ‘vocal for local’ and ‘local for global’ vision. He announced plans for Orunodoi 3.0, a bridge over the Brahmaputra, a four-lane highway to Bhutan, and enhancements to healthcare infrastructure, including a cancer hospital in Diphu and a new medical college in Morigaon.
He added, “With a medical college being established in Morigaon and a cancer hospital planned for Diphu, advanced treatment will be accessible locally. We will no longer need to travel to Guwahati for specialized care.”