March 13, Kokrajhar/Assam – Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone for various development projects in Kokrajhar, Assam, via video conferencing. The Prime Minister said that due to inclement weather, he was unable to visit Kokrajhar in person and expressed his sincere apologies to the gathered citizens, adding that he was communicating from Guwahati.
Paying tributes to prominent personalities of the region, the Prime Minister said he bows to great leaders of the land such as Bodofa Upendranath Brahma and Roopnath Brahma. He remarked that the massive turnout of people places a responsibility upon him which he intends to repay through dedicated service and development of the region. “It has always been my endeavor to repay this debt by serving you and developing this region,” he said.
The Prime Minister said that the double-engine government remains committed to preserving Assam’s heritage while ensuring rapid progress. He noted that development projects worth over ₹4,500 crore were inaugurated and initiated during the programme, with more than ₹1,100 crore earmarked for strengthening the road network in Bodoland. He added that the third phase of the Asom Mala campaign will significantly improve connectivity across the state.
Highlighting transport initiatives, the Prime Minister said he recently flagged off the Kamakhya–Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express and the Guwahati–New Jalpaiguri Express to boost regional mobility. He noted that improved transport infrastructure will facilitate trade and tourism while enabling farmers to access larger markets more easily.
The Prime Minister observed that Kokrajhar and surrounding areas had suffered for decades due to violence but said the region is now moving towards peace and harmony. He remarked that where once the sounds of weapons echoed, today traditional musical instruments like the ‘Kham’ and ‘Sifung’ reflect the region’s cultural vibrancy. “Today Bodoland has started walking on the path of peace and development,” he said.
He said foundation stones for six road projects in the Bodoland Territorial Region have been laid to strengthen local infrastructure. The Prime Minister added that rail connectivity is also being expanded through the establishment of a railway workshop and modernization of stations. He noted that the proposed rail link to Bhutan and stoppages of trains such as the Vande Bharat Express and Rajdhani Express in Kokrajhar highlight the region’s growing importance. “Kokrajhar is set to become a major center of trade through these projects,” he said.
The Prime Minister also congratulated teams led by Hagrama Mohilary and Himanta Biswa Sarma for their efforts towards development and peace. He said the government prioritised long-term stability and described the Bodo Peace Accord 2020 as a landmark step that brought major organisations together for lasting peace.
Expressing satisfaction over the state government’s campaign to reclaim land from illegal occupants, the Prime Minister praised efforts under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to provide legal land titles to original inhabitants of Assam. He also acknowledged the support of tribal communities in this initiative.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister said the pace of development in Assam must continue to accelerate to realise the vision of a self-reliant state. He expressed confidence that with the continued support and blessings of the people, the goal of a “Viksit Assam” will be achieved. “The resolve for a developed Assam will surely be fulfilled with the blessings of the people,” he said.
(Video Caption: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Launches Major Connectivity Projects in Assam)
(Source: Prime Minister's Office)