By Pramod Boro
Ever since taking oath on December 15, 2020, the Government of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) has undertaken a plethora of initiatives to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of all the region’s citizens, particularly the vulnerable groups and communities. The BTR Government’s vision of “Peaceful, Smart, and Green Bodoland” has translated into various multi-sectoral flagship programmes, schemes, and projects to bridge gaps, connect the dots, and restore self-esteem and dignity to all its citizens. Four years later, distinctive change and transformation have become visible in BTR.
What was once a region hounded by violence, ethnic conflicts, and sporadic killings has now transformed completely. Through sustained dialogue and inclusive policies, we have fostered healing among communities that suffered from decades of communal conflicts. Today, Bodoland stands united, embracing a spirit of reconciliation and mutual respect. The words of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, during the recently concluded Bodoland Mohotsov in Delhi, “The people of Bodoland Territorial Region have completely held onto their word for maintaining peace in the last five years,” is a testament to this fact. Here, I must mention that the continued guidance and support of Home Minister of India Amit Shah and the Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has been instrumental in paving the way for permanent peace and development in Bodoland. Due to various reasons in the past, Bodoland was left out of the broader development paradigm of the Region and the Nation. However, I am happy to mention that with the recent transformation towards a new era, Bodoland is in a position to contribute significantly to our march towards Vikshit Bharat Mission conceived by the Prime Minister of India.
Due to the preemptive and sustained interventions of the Government of BTR, supported by the Centre and the State Government, communal and ethnic flare-ups have been entirely absent in the last four years. We have streamlined governance systems to ensure transparency and efficiency in developmental activities. These reforms have enabled us to address grievances effectively, ensuring equitable progress across all sectors. Education is the cornerstone of any society. Recognizing this, we have prioritized the enhancement of educational institutions, paving the way for improved learning outcomes and better opportunities for our youth. Alongside education, we have revitalized other institutions to deliver robust and reliable services. After decades of instability and social unrest, we have redirected our focus toward harnessing the potential of our human resources. By strengthening educational institutions and investing in training and capacity-building programs, we are equipping our people with the skills and knowledge needed for a brighter future. Under the UN Bodofa Super 50 Mission, 382 youth from economically disadvantaged families have received cutting-edge coaching from the best institutions for entering top engineering and medical colleges in India and clearing APSC and UPSC exams. The success of these initiatives is evident, with 50 youth clearing APSC in 2024, compared to 25 in 2023.
BTR became the first Sixth Schedule Council to digitize land records and facilitate the online settlement of land-related problems through Mission Bwiswmuthi. It also became the first such council to start e-governance by introducing an e-office mechanism. Partnerships with 24 leading agencies have further strengthened governance systems and resources.
Our government has strongly emphasized creating need-based infrastructure in rural areas. Roads, schools, hospitals, and irrigation systems have been improved, providing much-needed services to underserved areas. We have explored and tapped into the potential of the rural economy, blending traditional practices with modern approaches to drive socio-cultural and socio-economic growth. By aligning development with community needs, we empower rural areas to contribute significantly to Bodoland’s progress.
Understanding the aspirations of our people has been central to our approach. We have collected and incorporated community visions through continuous dialogue and community-driven programs, shaping a collective roadmap for a better future. Inclusive participation in governance and decision-making processes ensures that no group feels marginalized or excluded.
In the absence of favorable niches for engaging in creative and recreational pursuits, festivals were often associated with mere merry-making, alcohol abuse, and large-scale gambling. These trends have now been reversed. The present government has set a benchmark for organizing festivals that provide space for promoting excellence in sports, language, literature, knowledge, theatre, art, and cultural rejuvenation. An unprecedented environment of confidence and fulfillment has been created among the youth.
Under the Green Bodoland Mission, efforts have been intensified to protect and preserve the region’s rich biodiversity. Reforestation drives, wildlife conservation projects, and the promotion of eco-friendly practices have ensured a sustainable approach to development. Clean energy projects and awareness campaigns have also been introduced to mitigate the impact of climate change.
Our journey does not end here. We are steadfast in our commitment to building a Bodoland that embodies peace, prosperity, and participatory democracy. Our vision for the future includes promoting equitable growth, fostering participatory Democracy, continuing to focus on harnessing human resources, and strengthening the rural economy, among other things.
As we move forward, we call upon every citizen of Bodoland to join hands in this journey of transformation. Together, we can build a region that is not only peaceful, smart, and green but also a beacon of hope, resilience, and progress for generations to come.
(The writer is Chief Executive Members, Bodoland Territorial Council)