Guwahati, Jan 28: Gelephu, a vital Bhutanese town near the Assam border, has long been a strategic gateway for trade and cultural exchanges between India and Bhutan. The proposed Mindfulness City promises to be a transformative project that will redefine the economic and environmental landscape of the region.
Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma today emphasized how this development aligns with Bodoland’s vision for sustainable growth and harmony. Sarma addressed a public gathering on January 28 at the Green Field in Kokrajhar on the fifth anniversary of the historic Bodo Peace Accord.
“The Gelephu Mindfulness City will create new opportunities, not just for Bhutan but for our neighbouring districts like Chirang. This initiative complements our development goals and strengthens our ties with Bhutan,” he remarked.
One of the most groundbreaking announcements during the event was the upcoming railway route connecting Guwahati to Gelephu via Chirang. This new railway line, expected to drastically reduce travel time between Chirang and Guwahati to just two hours, signifies a monumental step in regional connectivity. “This railway project will open up new economic corridors, enhance tourism, and foster better people-to-people ties with Bhutan,” the Chief Minister noted.
He further mentioned that during the forthcoming Advantage Assam 2.0 event, Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw would provide comprehensive details about the project.
The establishment of this railway link, combined with the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, underscores a future-oriented approach that emphasizes connectivity, peace, and shared prosperity. The strategic integration of Bodoland’s infrastructure with Bhutan’s growth projects highlights a regional development model rooted in cooperation and inclusivity.
Beyond connectivity, Dr Sarma also outlined Assam’s continuing commitment to the full implementation of the Bodo Peace Accord, particularly through the central government’s plan to introduce the 125th Amendment to the Constitution. He emphasized the significant strides made in rehabilitating former National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB) cadres and recognizing the Bodo language as an associate official language.
Further strengthening the region’s socio-economic foundation, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of a Bodoland University campus in Udalguri and pledged an additional investment of ₹400 crore to improve the road network in BTR. Out of 6,000 kilometres of roads planned, 2,000 kilometres have already been completed.
The Chief Minister lauded the BTR administration, led by Pramod Boro, for fostering peace and development in the region. He highlighted achievements such as the GI tagging of 21 traditional and cultural products of the Bodo community, the establishment of the Bodo Kachari Welfare Council for those living outside Bodoland, and the provincialisation of educational institutions.
Dr. Sarma’s announcement regarding the construction of Kokrajhar’s Sai Stadium, with an investment of ₹125 crore, further underscored the government’s commitment to sports and infrastructure development. Additionally, the forthcoming completion of Tamulpur Medical College and Hospital promises to significantly enhance healthcare access in the region.
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