New Delhi: The Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi hosted a North-East Sammelan on February 4, 2024, graced by several Union Ministers, including Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Shri B L Verma, and Shri Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. MPs from North East, MLAs from the states, and officers from various cadres in the North-East were also present at the event. The Sammelan aimed to highlight the advancing opportunities, unlimited potential, and rich cultural tapestry of the North Eastern Region.
The proceedings began with a tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar by the Ministers, followed by the virtual laying of the foundation stone for the North Eastern Cultural and Social Institute in Dwarka and the inauguration of the Barak Hostel at JNU, New Delhi. The North Eastern Cultural and Social Institute, with a budget of Rs. 116.38 crore, will feature amenities like an auditorium, library, art gallery, exhibition hall, research center, guest house, and more. The Barak Hostel at JNU, with an estimated cost of Rs. 28.675 Crore, aims to enhance hostel facilities for North-East students.
Shri G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Culture, and Tourism, emphasized the Sammelan as an opportunity to showcase the region’s opportunities and cultural richness. He highlighted the significant investments made by the Indian Government in the last decade, covering education, healthcare, agriculture, employment generation, and infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and Trilateral Highway Project.
Union Minister of State Shri B.L. Verma underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recognition of the crucial role of the North-East in the nation’s development. Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister for Earth Sciences, congratulated the launch of Barak Hostel and the foundation stone laying of the North Eastern Culture and Social Institute, emphasizing the link between peace and development in the region.
An exhibition showcasing handicrafts, handlooms, agricultural and horticultural products, and startups was part of the event. The Sammelan concluded with a cultural performance featuring diverse traditional dances, symbolizing the Government of India’s commitment to unlocking the unparalleled potential of the North-East for a brighter and more prosperous future.