Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates Development Projects Worth Rs. 6,500 Crore in Assam, Launches Demography Mission to Counter Infiltration.
Darrang, Assam:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth approximately Rs. 6,500 crore in Darrang, Assam on Sunday September 14, marking a significant push in the government’s continued focus on the development of the North East region. Addressing a large gathering, Modi underscored Assam’s growing role as a key contributor to India’s development journey and launched a strong warning against infiltration threats, announcing the commencement of a nationwide Demography Mission.
Assam Emerging as Growth Engine of India
Highlighting Assam’s transformation, Modi noted that the state, once lagging behind in development, is now among the fastest-growing states in the country with a growth rate nearing 13%. He attributed this progress to the joint efforts of the people, the state government, and the Centre.
“India is now the fastest-growing economy in the world, and Assam is keeping pace as one of the fastest-growing states,” said Modi. He praised the people of Assam for their continued support and noted the recent panchayat elections as a reflection of public confidence in the state’s leadership under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
New Projects to Boost Connectivity and Healthcare
The Prime Minister inaugurated several key infrastructure and healthcare projects, including the Darrang Medical College and Hospital, new highways, and a ring road designed to reduce urban congestion and enhance multi-modal connectivity. Modi emphasized the importance of robust infrastructure in driving regional development.
“Rapid connectivity is essential for rapid development. That is why our government has prioritized expanding road, rail, air, and digital networks across the North East,” he said. He also announced the Kurua–Narengi bridge, which will drastically cut travel time between Guwahati and Darrang.
The new ring road project will connect five national highways, two state highways, one airport, three railway stations, and an inland water terminal—ushering in Assam’s first seamless multi-modal transport system.
Healthcare Expansion and GST Reforms
Modi highlighted the dramatic expansion of healthcare infrastructure, pointing out that Assam had only six medical colleges before 2014, but now has 24, thanks to accelerated efforts over the past decade. He also announced a new national target of adding one lakh new medical seats in the next 4–5 years.
Further, the Prime Minister shared upcoming GST reforms to be implemented starting Navratri. These include reduced taxes on cement, medicines, insurance premiums, and vehicles, aimed at lowering household expenses and boosting the economy.
Call for ‘Vocal for Local’
With the festive season approaching, Modi urged citizens to choose indigenous products and support local businesses. “Buy Made in India, gift Made in India, and ask your shopkeepers to stock Made in India products,” he appealed, stressing that every such step contributes to national strength.
Demography Mission Launched to Tackle Infiltration
In a major policy announcement, Modi launched the Demography Mission, a nationwide initiative to address demographic changes in border regions caused by infiltration. He described it as a threat to national security and social harmony.
He claimed that past opposition-led governments encouraged illegal infiltration and allowed demographic manipulation through encroachments on religious and tribal lands. In contrast, he said, the current government has taken strong action, reclaiming large swathes of land in districts like Darrang from infiltrators.
Modi highlighted the Gorukhuti Agricultural Project—land reclaimed from infiltrators now being cultivated by local youth as part of a revival in agriculture. He warned that atrocities committed by infiltrators, particularly against women, would no longer be tolerated.
“Our government will ensure that infiltrators do not seize India’s resources. The rights of our farmers, youth, and tribal communities will be fully protected,” Modi declared.
Vision for the North East
Modi stated that the next phase of India’s development belongs to the East and North East, regions that were historically neglected. He committed to making Assam a growth engine of India and called for unity to preserve Assam’s heritage while building a stronger, developed future.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal were present at the event, along with other dignitaries.
This visit follows the recent success of Operation Sindoor, which Modi described as a turning point in India’s national security framework. Referring to it as an embodiment of India’s renewed defense strategy, he warned opposition parties against aligning with anti-national forces and urged the public to remain vigilant.
With this event, Modi reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to accelerating development, safeguarding national security, and empowering the North East as a pillar of a Developed India.
