Editor
In Short: Honorable Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma chaired a review meeting in Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) to discuss development initiatives. Key highlights include the deployment of a Forest Protection battalion, review of government schemes, education and road infrastructure development, agriculture initiatives, and the establishment of Skill India International Centre. The meeting also emphasized filling gazetted posts, setting up trade and industrial corporations, promoting tourism, and launching Mission Blossom Again for ex-NDFB cadres. Progress in livelihood missions, social development, governance improvement, sports promotion, and knowledge enhancement were reviewed.
One of the notable decisions taken during the meeting was the deployment of a Forest Protection battalion to safeguard the rich biodiversity of BTR. This move will ensure the preservation of the region's natural resources and promote sustainable development.
The review meeting also focused on assessing the progress of various Central Government schemes implemented in BTR, such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin). These schemes have been instrumental in providing livelihood opportunities and affordable housing to the people of BTR.
Education and road infrastructure were identified as crucial areas for development. The government has initiated projects to enhance the quality of education in the region and improve connectivity through the construction and upgrading of roads. These efforts will not only empower the residents of BTR but also facilitate better access to markets and essential services.
In a bid to boost the agricultural sector, the meeting highlighted various initiatives to augment agricultural productivity and income. The government aims to implement modern farming techniques, provide access to credit facilities, and promote farmer-centric policies that will lead to sustainable agricultural growth in the region.
Another significant development announced during the meeting was the establishment of the Skill India International Centre in Kokrajhar. This center will provide skill development training to the youth of BTR, equipping them with the necessary expertise to excel in various industries and contribute to the region's economic growth.
To address the issue of vacant gazetted posts, the government will expedite the recruitment process, ensuring the timely filling of positions and efficient functioning of administrative bodies in BTR.
In a major step towards industrial development, the meeting highlighted the establishment of the Bodoland Trade & Industrial Corporation Limited (BTIDCL). This entity will actively seek partnerships and investment opportunities to promote industrial growth and attract businesses to set up operations in BTR.
Recognizing the potential of tourism in the region, the government formed the Bodoland Tourism Development Corporation (BTDCL). The primary objective of this corporation is to promote tourism, showcase the cultural heritage of BTR, and generate revenue, thereby creating employment opportunities for the local population.
A remarkable initiative launched during the meeting was the Mission Blossom Again, aimed at ensuring long-term socio-economic upliftment for ex-National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) cadres and the families of martyrs. This comprehensive program will provide skill training, employment opportunities, and financial assistance to these individuals, fostering their reintegration into mainstream society.
The review meeting also assessed the progress of various livelihood missions, including the Bodoland Pig mission, Bodoland Sericulture mission, SEED mission, Bodoland Handloom Mission, and Bodofa Livelihood mission. These missions play a vital role in empowering local communities, promoting entrepreneurship, and boosting economic growth in the region.
Additionally, the meeting focused on reviewing social development schemes, governance improvement measures, sports promotion, and knowledge enhancement initiatives. These endeavors aim to enhance the overall well-being of the residents of BTR, ensuring inclusive growth and a better quality of life.
With the participation of Honorable Ministers Ranoj Pegu, Urkhao Gwra Brahma, Jogen Mohan, and other senior officials, the comprehensive development of Bodoland Territorial Region and the implementation of various transformative initiatives received a significant impetus. The collective efforts of the State Government and BTC underscore the commitment towards the upliftment and progress of BTR, heralding a new