Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Assam, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the development and cultural recognition of the Northeast. Addressing a massive gathering in Guwahati, he emphasized that his government has taken unprecedented steps to bring the region into the national spotlight, ensuring its cultural and economic progress. Speaking to a cheering crowd, PM Modi said, “There was a time when Assam and the entire Northeast were overlooked in the country’s development agenda, and its rich culture was ignored. But today, I declare myself the brand ambassador of the Northeast’s culture.” His remarks were met with applause, symbolizing the growing national recognition of the region’s unique heritage. PM Modi also highlighted his landmark visit to Kaziranga National Park, making him the first sitting Prime Minister to do so. Reflecting on this achievement, he stated, “I am the first Prime Minister to stop at Kaziranga in Assam and tell the world about its biodiversity.” His visit underscored the government’s efforts to promote the park as a global ecological treasure, home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros and diverse wildlife.
Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long been a symbol of Assam’s natural beauty and conservation efforts. PM Modi’s emphasis on its international significance aligns with his broader push to promote Indian tourism and environmental preservation. In a major cultural announcement, PM Modi celebrated the recognition of Assamese as a classical language, a milestone that has been widely welcomed across the state.“A few months ago, we gave Assamese the status of a classical language. The people of Assam had been waiting for this honor for decades,” he declared, reinforcing the government’s role in preserving and promoting linguistic heritage. The designation of Assamese as a classical language elevates its literary and historical standing, placing it alongside languages such as Sanskrit and Tamil. The decision is expected to boost academic research, funding, and cultural pride among Assamese-speaking communities, further strengthening the linguistic identity of the region.
PM Modi’s statements come at a time when the central government has been actively working on integrating the Northeast into India’s mainstream development narrative. His administration has focused on infrastructure projects, connectivity improvements, and economic investments, aiming to transform the region into a hub of growth and opportunity.Over the years, several initiatives, including the Act East Policy, have been launched to enhance trade, tourism, and employment opportunities in the Northeast. His visit reaffirmed that the cultural richness of the region will not only be preserved but will also play a crucial role in shaping India’s future.