In the heart of Bodoland region, where verdant fields stretch to meet the horizon and rivers sing songs of ancient times, a new chapter of hope, harmony, and unity has unfolded ever since the signing of the historic Bodo Peace Accord 2020. This is a land, like other parts of Assam and North East India, that has endured the storms of struggle and conflict. However, thanks to the visionary intervention of Prime Minister , support of Hon’ble Home Minister of India and the hard work of Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma , it is emerging resilient, today, and poised for a brighter future.
The Bodo Peace Accord 2020 provided the opportunity to our brothers and sisters who were earlier cadres of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) to return to the mainstream by laying down their arms in the interest of peace. Here, the Civil Society Organizations led by the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) had played a monumental role in spearheading the Movement for Peace and finally succeeding in making Bodoland a region which is totally free from illegal arms. This is the essence of Bodoland Model of Peace, a shining testament to the vision and sincere efforts at all levels of the government(s) on the one hand, and the spirit of solidarity and the collective resolve of its people, on the other hand.
On the 8th of March 2025, I was pleased to attend the Rehabilitation Package distribution Ceremony held at Kokrajhar for 678 former cadres of the NDFB. This has taken the number of our former cadres who have received the rehabilitation package to a total of 4881. The concerned departments of the Government of India as well as the Government of Assam have worked tirelessly to make the process rigorous yet smooth. Ex-gratia payments to the families of 632 martyrs was completed earlier this year, ensuring that those affected by past conflicts receive the support they need. This has been possible as it was our sincere effort to make the rehabilitation of the former cadres of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) a priority.
However, it is important to note here that the BTR Government’s work has extended beyond rehabilitation by focusing equally on the meaningful social, economic, and psychological re-integration of the former cadres. The lingering hurt and grief needed healing and reconciliation. In this regard, a plethora of flagship programmes like the Bodoland Happiness Mission and the Community Visions of BTR have gradually crystallised a future filled with possibilities and peace. Through The Fin Rwdwmkhang Mission, another flagship initiative of our government, the former cadres of the NDFB have initiated sustainable livelihoods through cooperative movement. Nineteen multipurpose cooperative societies have been registered and have started gainful activities in agriculture, veterinary, and agro-tourism among others.
Lives lived in uncertainty are now filled with hopes and aspirations! Bloodshed, violence, killings and hatred are now completely replaced by revolutionary zeal to sustain peace and harmonious co-existence. How could such a transformation take place in so short a time? Again, all because of the vision and will of the exceptional leadership of the present-day Bharat, without a doubt! The former cadres of the NDFB have not only returned home to their families and rejoined the mainstream, but they have now become the unwavering proponents of peace, resilience and social harmony.
Such an environment has made the implementation of various clauses of the Bodo Peace Accord 2020 a source of immense pride. The construction of several projects that are funded by the Government of Assam and Government of India are well underway. These projects range from polytechnic and vocational training institutes to paramedical and nursing science institutes, cultural complexes, animal feed plants, organic manure production centers, traditional food parks, educational institutions, and emporiums for tribal women. The provincialization of 259 services for teaching and non-teaching staff in ten venture colleges has been accomplished, while 60 villages have been added to BTR. In the coming days, we are hopeful that the Bodo Peace Accord will be implemented in toto for the benefit of all the citizens of BTR. The Bodoland Happiness Mission, a symbol of unity and shared aspirations, underscores the BTR Government’s commitment to a harmonious future. Envisioning permanent peace and harmonious coexistence, it works collectively towards realizing the Community Visions of each of the 26 proud communities residing in Bodoland Territorial Region. Thus, ensuring that as peace return, a new era of ‘Nirman’ unfolds!
In this vein, to our brothers and sisters who still tread the path of armed revolution elsewhere in the country, consider the words of our Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi Ji: Peace is the strongest and most powerful form of resistance. Let us all join hands and embrace this path, for it is only through peace that we can build a Vikshit Bharat @2047 as envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India . In this context, the unwavering commitment of the Government and the steadfast resolve of its people, Bodoland is now forging a path to a brighter, more harmonious future, one where the echoes of conflict are replaced by a symphony of peace, harmony and prosperity- a complete transformation: Sangharsh to Nirman!
Pramod Boro
Chief Executive Member of Bodoland Territorial Region
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