Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 1st Bodoland Mohotsav on November 15, marking a significant celebration of language, literature, and culture aimed at fostering peace and building a vibrant Bodo society. The two-day mega event celebrates the cultural richness of Bodoland while reflecting on its journey of peace and progress since the signing of the Bodo Peace Accord in 2020.
In his address, the Prime Minister extended greetings on Kartik Purnima, Dev Deepavali, the 555th Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, observed as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. Congratulating the Bodo people, Shri Modi termed the event as an emotional moment, highlighting its significance as Bodoland celebrates unity after decades of conflict.
The Prime Minister praised the Bodo Peace Accord for transforming the region, leading to the rehabilitation of over 4,000 former cadres of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland and the return of over 10,000 youths to the mainstream. He noted the substantial investments made in Bodoland, including a ₹1,500 crore central package, ₹800 crore annual allocation by the Assam government, and significant spending on education, health, and cultural infrastructure.
Promoting Culture and Development
Highlighting initiatives such as the SEED Mission—focused on skilling, entrepreneurship, employment, and development—Shri Modi expressed confidence in the opportunities being created for Bodo youth and women. The Prime Minister also lauded the region's evolving sports culture, including Kokrajhar hosting the Durand Cup with international participation.
At the event’s exhibition, Shri Modi appreciated the GI-tagged Bodo art and craft, including Aronnaye, Dokhona, and Thorkha, and noted efforts to promote sericulture and weaving through the Bodoland Sericulture and Handloom Missions.
Tourism and Heritage
Shri Modi emphasized Bodoland’s growing potential in tourism, with national parks like Manas, Raimona, and Sikhna Jhalao becoming key attractions. Recalling contributions by Bodo leaders such as Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma and Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma, the Prime Minister urged the community to preserve and strengthen their rich cultural heritage.
A Vision for the Northeast
Calling the Northeast “Ashtalakshmi” of India, Shri Modi highlighted the region’s integral role in the nation’s development. He pointed out significant achievements in health infrastructure in Assam, including new medical colleges and hospitals, reducing challenges for the region's people.
Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction at Bodoland’s transformation and reaffirmed the government's commitment to the Northeast’s development. The event was attended by key leaders, including Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, BTR Chief Shri Pramod Boro, and other dignitaries.
The Bodoland Mohotsav aims to integrate the Bodo community across the region and beyond, celebrating their cultural heritage under the theme “Peace and Harmony for Prosperous Bharat.” It features discussions on Bodo culture, language, tourism, and the National Education Policy, attracting thousands of attendees, including participants from neighboring countries.(PR)