Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone of the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project in Assam, describing it as a landmark initiative that will strengthen connectivity while protecting the region’s unique biodiversity.
Addressing a large public gathering, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the people of Assam for their overwhelming presence despite cold weather and long travel distances. Recalling his previous visit to Kaziranga, he said his overnight stay at the national park and elephant safari had left a lasting impression on him, highlighting the region’s natural beauty and ecological significance.
Assam’s Culture and Heritage Praised
PM Modi said he always experiences a special sense of joy while visiting Assam, calling it a land of bravery, talent, and cultural richness. Referring to his participation in the Bagurumba Dhou programme in Guwahati a day earlier, he lauded the Bodo community artists for creating a new record with performances by over 10,000 dancers.
He praised the energy, coordination, and dedication of the performers and noted that the Bagurumba dance had gained widespread attention on social media, helping showcase India’s cultural strength to the world.
Development with Heritage
The Prime Minister highlighted recent development initiatives in the state, including the expansion of the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and the foundation stone laying of the Namrup Ammonia-Urea Complex. These initiatives, he said, reflect the BJP government’s guiding principle of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (Development along with Heritage).
Strategic Importance of Kaliabor
PM Modi underlined the historical and strategic importance of Kaliabor, calling it a gateway to Kaziranga National Park and a key connectivity hub for Upper Assam. He recalled how legendary Ahom commander Lachit Borphukan had planned the defeat of Mughal forces from this region, describing it as a symbol of Assam’s pride, unity, and resilience.
He said the area, which held strategic importance since the Ahom era, is now emerging as a major center of connectivity and development under the BJP government.
Political Message from Recent Election Results
Referring to recent election outcomes across the country, the Prime Minister said the public mandate clearly reflects people’s preference for good governance and development-focused politics. He cited strong electoral performances by the BJP in Bihar, Maharashtra, Mumbai civic elections, and Kerala, including the party’s first-ever mayor in Thiruvananthapuram.
He added that voters are increasingly rejecting what he termed negative politics, asserting that parties without a development agenda have lost public trust.
Commitment to Kaziranga’s Conservation
Quoting Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, PM Modi described Kaziranga as the soul of Assam and an invaluable jewel of India’s biodiversity. He emphasized that protecting Kaziranga and its wildlife is not just an environmental responsibility but a duty towards future generations.
