Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the improved law and order situation across Northeast India, attributing the region’s stability and development to initiatives by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
“Before 2014, the Northeast faced political instability, agitations, and militant movements. Since then, peace accords and the surrender of militants have transformed the region. Peace is a prerequisite for tourism development, and today, barring a few incidents, the Northeast is largely peaceful,” CM Sarma stated at the 12th International Tourism Mart (ITM) in Kaziranga.
The Chief Minister highlighted the region’s progress post-2014, including infrastructure development, peace restoration, and improved relations among Northeastern states.
Promoting Tourism and Cultural Heritage
CM Sarma proposed establishing tourism museums in New Delhi and Guwahati to position Northeast India as a distinct tourism circuit. These initiatives aim to attract domestic and international tourists, boosting the region’s economic and cultural profile.
At the event, Sarma underscored the ITM’s role as a platform to showcase the Northeast’s diverse heritage, culture, and historical narratives. He reflected on high-profile visits to Kaziranga, including those by PM Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, former President Ram Nath Kovind, and the King of Bhutan, which have elevated the region’s global appeal.
The Chief Minister also celebrated the UNESCO recognition of Charaideo Maidam as a World Heritage Site, attributing the achievement to the combined efforts of the Prime Minister and the Union Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Charaideo, a testament to Assam’s Ahom dynasty, holds immense historical significance and is considered a monumental success for the state.
Tourism as an Engine for Economic Growth
The Chief Minister highlighted Assam’s tourism potential, citing the region’s rich biodiversity, cultural landmarks, and festivals. From the verdant tea gardens and the Brahmaputra River to spiritual sites such as Kamakhya, Umananda, and Hajo, he emphasized the state’s ability to attract adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike.
Sarma lauded the state’s efforts to combat rhino poaching in Kaziranga and noted the success in conservation and tourism, with over ten lakh tourists visiting Assam last year. He also appealed to the Union Ministry to include Majuli, the world’s largest river island, in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
He urged stakeholders and entrepreneurs to collaborate in promoting sustainable tourism, which he described as a catalyst for cultural exchange, environmental preservation, and economic development.
Key Attendees and Initiatives
The event was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Tourism Ministers from the eight Northeastern states, Assam Cabinet Ministers Atul Bora, Keshab Mahanta, Jayanta Malla Baruah, Members of Parliament, entrepreneurs, and other dignitaries.
CM Sarma expressed gratitude to the Union Ministry for its support in enhancing Assam’s tourism infrastructure, including ongoing beautification projects at the Assam State Zoo in Guwahati and Rang Ghar in Sivasagar.
Through collaborative efforts, Sarma reiterated his commitment to positioning Assam and the Northeast as premier tourism destinations, fostering cultural pride and economic prosperity.