Guwahati, 10 October (HS): Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Saturday stressed that the development of border villages, women's empowerment and youth advancement are essential to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. During his visit to Patkijuli village along the India-Bhutan border in Tamulpur district, he called for collective efforts to strengthen rural livelihoods, promote self-reliance and ensure inclusive development in border areas.

The Governor attended a programme organised by the 64th Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Patkijuli High School under the Namo Matribhoomi Suraksha avam Swavalamban Sankalp Saptah. Organised by Lok Bhavan, Assam, in association with the SSB under the Vibrant Villages Programme, the initiative focused on public welfare, healthcare awareness, women's empowerment and educational opportunities for young people.

Interacting with local residents, students and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Acharya said empowered villages and confident citizens were vital to building a strong and self-reliant India. He also appreciated the contribution of SSB personnel in safeguarding the international border and supporting the welfare of border communities.

Highlighting Tamulpur's ethnic traditions, tribal heritage and cultural diversity, the Governor said the harmonious coexistence of different communities reflected the spirit of India's civilisation and strengthened the country's social fabric. On the eve of Navratri, he extended his greetings to the people of the district.

Acharya urged citizens to discharge their responsibilities with honesty, discipline and dedication, emphasising that nation-building begins with contributing to village development and working for the welfare of society. Reaffirming the principle of 'Nation First', he called upon people to contribute actively to the country's progress.

Underscoring the importance of the Vibrant Villages Programme, the Governor said the development of settlements along international borders was crucial for improving living standards, creating livelihood opportunities and ensuring that the benefits of development reached people at the grassroots level.

As part of the programme, Acharya distributed certificates to women from border areas who had completed beautician training conducted by the SSB's 64th Battalion at the Border Out Post (BOP), Patkijuli. He encouraged the trainees to use their newly acquired skills to pursue self-employment, achieve financial independence and contribute to their families' economic well-being.

The Governor also highlighted the importance of education, discipline and hard work in shaping the future of young people. He urged students to pursue their studies sincerely, embrace emerging technologies and aim high in life. He particularly stressed the need to ensure equal educational opportunities for girls so that they could develop their abilities and realise their aspirations.

In a major youth outreach initiative, the Governor flagged off a Bharat Darshan tour for boys and girls from border areas. The students will visit Kolkata from October 10 to 15, 2026. The tour is intended to broaden their horizons, familiarise them with India's cultural diversity and strengthen their sense of national integration.

The programme also featured a Medical Civic Action Programme and a Millets Mela organised by the SSB to promote healthcare awareness, community well-being and knowledge of nutritious food. An oath was also administered under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, encouraging participants to work towards a drug-free society.

Earlier, Minister Biswajit Daimary delivered the welcome address. After concluding the programme at Patkijuli, the Governor proceeded to BOP Darranga, where he interacted with SSB personnel and shared Barakhana with the jawans.

MLA Victor Das, Bodoland Territorial Council Executive Members Ganesh Kachari and Lakhi Das, SSB Inspector General Sudhir Verma, Deputy Inspector Generals Manoj Kumar and Neeraj Chand, 64th Battalion Commandant Anuj Kumar, Tamulpur District Commissioner Simi Karan, Senior Superintendent of Police Suman Chakraborty, SSB officers and personnel, students and teachers of Patkijuli High School, and local residents attended the programme.-------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash