The Assam Government has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to secure UNESCO recognition for some of the state’s most celebrated cultural and historical treasures, following the successful inscription of the Charaideo Moidams as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Presenting the 2026–27 State Budget in the Assam Legislative Assembly on Friday, Finance Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah announced that the government would pursue international recognition for Assam’s heritage under UNESCO’s cultural, natural and intangible heritage categories.
As part of the initiative, the government plans to seek UNESCO recognition for the Vaishnavite Culture of Majuli, Bihu, and the historic Ahom capital of Rangpur in Sivasagar. The move aims to preserve Assam’s rich cultural legacy while strengthening its global identity and boosting heritage tourism.
The minister said the recognition would help protect the state’s unique traditions and monuments while attracting greater international attention to Assam’s cultural heritage.
The Budget also proposes to accelerate conservation work at two prominent Ahom-era monuments—Rang Ghar and Kareng Ghar. Besides restoration and preservation, the government plans to improve visitor facilities to enhance the experience for tourists and researchers.
Recognising the religious significance of Madhupur Satra, where Srimanta Sankardeva spent the final years of his life, the government announced a comprehensive development programme for the historic site. The initiative will include heritage conservation, better pilgrim amenities and improved cultural infrastructure.
To strengthen the institutional framework of Assam’s Vaishnavite tradition, the government will establish and empower the Assam Satra Commission, which will work towards the preservation and development of the state’s Satras.
In a bid to showcase Assam’s cultural heritage on a national platform, the government will organise a grand Bihu celebration in New Delhi, taking the state’s iconic festival to the country’s capital.
The Budget has also proposed financial assistance for producing world-class feature films on legendary Ahom commander Lachit Barphukan and freedom fighter Swahid Kushal Konwar, with the aim of introducing their inspiring lives to wider national and international audiences.
Additionally, Assam will host the grand concluding ceremony of the birth centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika in New Delhi, honouring the legendary singer, composer and cultural icon for his lasting contribution to music, literature and national integration.
The heritage initiatives form part of the government’s broader strategy to preserve Assam’s cultural identity while positioning the state as a leading destination for heritage and cultural tourism.