Kinnaur's Chronicles: India's First Voter Meets India's First Woman Cabinet Minister

"Youth should come forward to participate in the democratic process as it is not only our right but also our duty to participate in the elections by exercising our franchise"

In the autumnal embrace of 1951, a 34-year-old teacher named Shyam Saran Negi embarked upon a momentous journey at the behest of democracy. October 25th witnessed the humble village of Kalpa (Chini) in the Kinnaur district, under the Mandi- Mahasu Lok Sabha Constituency of Himachal Pradesh playing host to his historic vote, cast resolutely at the Shongthong Polling Station. It was no ordinary ballot; it marked the inception of India's maiden general election. While the rest of the nation had to await the polling booths to open their doors in February 1952, Kinnaur emerged as a trailblazer, due to the forecast of the impending snowfall of February and March. 

Shyam Saran Negi: Independent India's First Voter

Nestled under the aegis of the Mandi-Mahasu (now Mandi) Lok Sabha constituency in 1951, Kinnaur found itself in the electoral limelight. The chosen constituency bore witness to the election of Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, a formidable leader who etched her name in history as the inaugural Union Health Minister in Jawaharlal Nehru's interim cabinet, a position she held steadfastly until 1956. In the hallowed halls of Parliament, she orchestrated the introduction of a pivotal bill, one that laid the groundwork for the establishment of the prestigious AIIMS in the heart of Delhi. She was not only India's First Female Cabinet Minister but also First Asian Woman to head of the governing body of the World Health Organisation. 

Rajkumari Amrit Kaur (2nd From R to L sitting) in Independent India's First Cabinet (30/01/1950) 

In the vibrant tapestry of Indian elections, the tale of Shyam Saran Negi stands out as an inspiring thread. In the electoral saga of Shyam Saran Negi, a steadfast voter who, without faltering, exercised his democratic duty from Panchayat to Parliament, gracing the polling station consistently. 

Shyam Saran Negi on his way to polling station in 2019 General Election

Negi's unwavering commitment continued even during Himachal Pradesh's Assembly Election on November 12, 2022. Despite battling ill health, at the age of 105, he ensured his voice was heard through a postal ballot on November 2, 2022, just three days before bidding farewell to this mortal realm. Negi's poignant act epitomizes the essence of democracy, reminding us that every vote counts, regardless of the circumstances. Exulting his legacy which endures as a symbol of resilience and civic duty, Election Commission, in 2014 General Election made him Brand Ambassador in a bid to encourage voting among citizens.

Silpi Divas 2024 Honors Assamese Luminaries

In the hallowed ambiance of the Tezpur Collegiate Field, bathed in the cultural resonance of Assam, the Silpi Divas unfolded its grand tapestry to honor the luminaries who have etched indelible marks on the canvas of Assamese culture. As the sun cast its golden hues over the ceremony commemorating the 74th death anniversary of the revered Rupkonwor Jyoti Prashad Agarwala, the coveted Silpi Bota found a deserving home in the hands of the distinguished artiste, Shri Manisha Hazarika. Orchestrated by the Cultural Affairs Department of Assam, the celebration not only paid homage to a cultural doyen but also recognized the multifaceted contributions of several eminent personalities. 

Laurels Adorn Luminaries:

                         Silpi Bota (2024)               - Eminent artiste Shri Manisha Hazarika

    

 National Level Awards:

• Sukapha Award (2023) - Eminent journalist Dhirendra Nath Bezbaruah 

• Krishna Kanta Handique Award (2023)   - Dr. Pradipjyoti Mahanta

• Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Award for National Integration (2023) - Noted Journalist Dhirendra Nath Chakrabarty

 State Level Awards:

• Dr. Birendra Kumar Bahattacharya Award (2023) - Journalist Shri Prashanta Barua

• Natasurya Phani Sarmah Award (2023) - Actress Shri Chetana Das

• Silpi Sainik Brajanath Sarmah Award (2023) - Folk artist Shri Jagadish Barman

• Sati Radhika Award (2023) - Social activist Dr Malati Baruah

In an unequivocal celebration of artistic prowess, 60 distinguished artisans were graciously endowed with the coveted artistes' pension. Meanwhile, the ethereal tapestry of regional talent saw the bestowment of annual artiste awards upon a laudable cohort of 151 artists. In a commendable act of inclusivity, 10 Divayanga maestros and 10 revered artistes' kin were bestowed with a one-time financial benevolence, embodying the symbiosis between cultural patronage and compassionate support. This harmonious convergence of recognition and assistance exemplifies a collective commitment to nurturing and honoring the diverse tapestry of artistic brilliance within the community.

Meteka metamorphosis: Dolbari's aquatic affluence tale

Assam, an enchanting realm steeped in the tapestry of cultural diversity, stands adorned with an array of exquisite handicrafts and handlooms, a tradition gracefully woven into the very fabric of every household. A symphony of artistic fervor resonates through the intricate crafts that define this verdant land.

In the vibrant panorama of Assamese craftsmanship, the quintessence lies in the masterful manipulation of cane and bamboo, the rhythmic dance of mat weaving, the delicate finesse of basketry, the artistry etched into woodwork, the resplendent allure of brass craft, and the loom's lyrical tale told through handwoven textiles. Tribal jewelry, an opulent manifestation of indigenous aesthetics, graces the artistic spectrum alongside terracotta, stone crafts, the poetic arrangement of dry flowers, and the ever-evolving saga of jute diversification.

Yet, amid the kaleidoscope of these artisanal treasures, a poignant narrative emerges—one of untapped potential and latent brilliance. Despite the robust foundations laid in sectors that burgeon with employment opportunities, a palpable void persists. A dearth of concerted efforts, rooted in a comprehensive and integrated approach, prevails when it comes to showcasing Assam's handicrafts, handloom, and the myriad facets of its cottage industry sector to discerning buyers.

The water hyacinth (Scientific name: Eichhornia crassipes, Assamese name: Pani Meteka), a verdant symphony of nature's fecundity, stands as a testament to botanical abundance, an unrivaled maestro in the orchestration of productivity. Within its aqueous domain, this remarkable plant yields an astounding bounty, surpassing the verdant tapestry of 200 tons of dry matter per hectare annually under standard conditions. Yet, when immersed in the nutrient-rich embrace of sewage-laden waters, it orchestrates a botanical opus, bestowing upon us a staggering 657 tons of dry matter per hectare.

In the enchanting landscapes of Assam, this aquatic invasive species graces every waterway, from the grandiose expanses of vast lakes to the intimate embrace of village ponds. For an extended epoch, this aquatic plant was relegated to the periphery of our ecological consciousness, dismissed as a mere waste, an inconvenient intruder, or a trivial weed, its potential obscured and unexplored languishing either in the throes of clearance or in the limbo of neglect.

Yet, within the verdant tendrils of the water hyacinth lies an untapped reservoir of ecological promise. Beyond the superficial designation of nuisance, there exists a symphony of possibilities waiting to be unraveled. Such perspectives of ours is recalibrated by AIIDC (Assam Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation) by setting up a Water Hyacinth (PaniMeteka) Common Facility Service Center (CFSC) at Dolbari, Morigaon District of Assam, to discover in this seemingly prolific aquatic companion not mere as weed but as potential partner in sustainable ecological harmony with inclusive growth perspective. 

The CFSC of Dolbari, Morigaon is first of its kind in the entire country with respect to crafting wealth of array of products from an aggressive invasive species like water hyacinth. In this paradigm of CFSC, an extensive array of amenities stands poised for dissemination, catering not only to the discerning producer but also to the astute buyer. The resolute objective herein is to galvanize the catalytic forces propelling employment augmentation within the realms of non-formal economic activities. The orchestration of this multifaceted interface is being adroitly helmed by the Industries & Commerce Department, Government of Assam.

Fig: Processing of Water Hyacinth to make handicraft (source: ASRLM website)

Why this imperious Call for the Proliferation of Water Hyacinth Artistry? 

Against this question we find ourselves at the confluence of environmental preservation and socio-economic fortitude. The removal of this intruder not only conserve water by prohibiting 2.5 to 3 times more evaporation but also has the potential for transformative change in rural hinterlands beckons. The cultivation of Water Hyacinth Craft lays the groundwork for sustainable livelihoods, a cornerstone for inclusive growth that resonates in the tapestry of rural existence as nature, in her bounty, offers the artisan an abundant palette of hyacinths.

            

This artisanal pursuit, structured in a manner that transcends skill levels, bespeaks a meritocratic ethos. From the hands of the unskilled emerges a delicate piece of dry stem, earning its creator a humble yet dignified remuneration of 15 paisa. The semi-skilled artisan, engaged in the artistry of braid and rope, commands a more substantial compensation ranging from Rs. 2 to 3.5 per meter. For the skilled practitioner, the zenith of craftsmanship unveils itself in finished products of exquisite allure. From the modest coin purse fetching Rs. 40 to the opulent furniture set commanding a princely sum of Rs. 30,000, the spectrum of economic empowerment unfurls with the virtuosity of artisanal skill.

In the hands of consumers, the Water Hyacinth Craft emerges not merely as a commodity but as a conscientious choice. An eco-friendly alternative, it beckons those who seek not just utility but also a resonance with the ethos of environmental responsibility.

Crucially, this endeavor transcends the economic realm, unfurling as a tapestry of empowerment for women in the rural hinterlands. As the looms resonate with the industry of skilled hands, it is the women who find themselves endowed with newfound agency, forging paths to autonomy and self-reliance.

The Assam government, in collaboration with the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission (ASRLM) and NEDFi, envisions a transformative initiative: harnessing the potential of water hyacinth craft to empower rural women economically. A meticulous strategy, blending formal training and structured programs, is indispensable to propel Water Hyacinth Craft into a sustainable livelihood avenue. Technical training and targeted Capacity Building Programmes tailored to the needs of artisans are imperative for skill enhancement and heightened productivity. 

However, the lifeline of this endeavor lies in establishing a robust market linkage and a resilient supply chain. For this industry to flourish, meticulous efforts towards export-oriented capacity building are pivotal, ensuring not only immediate returns but also a sustainable, long-term livelihood option. In the delicate tapestry of economic empowerment, the weft of water hyacinth craft intertwines with the warp of opportunity, weaving a narrative of progress for the women beneficiaries in rural Assam.

In the grand orchestration of sustainable practices, economic prosperity, and empowerment, the Water Hyacinth Craft stands as a testament to the confluence of environmental sagacity and human resilience. In its humble fibers, we discern not just a craft but a narrative of harmonious coexistence, a tale woven with threads of ecological conscientiousness and rural empowerment.

Navigating the troubled waters: The River Police of Assam

River police.. Yes ! Guardians of the waterways whose paramount duty is to secure the riverine routes of Assam. Since 1971, Assam has witnessed a regular influx of illegal immigration and majority of this is due to the porous riverine borders between Assam and Bangladesh. 

On 24th July 1979, River Police organisation was set up by the then Hon'ble Governor of Assam Lallan Prasad Singh with constituting a separate 'River Police District' comprising areas of Goalpara, Kamrup and Darrang districts. The primary objective orchestrated in this strategic initiative was to proactively counteract unlawful infiltrations while concurrently maintaining a vigilant watch over the formidable expanse of the Brahmaputra. 

The administrative structure of the river police was decided under the rank of a Deputy Inspector General of Police (Border) Assam as Drawing and Disbursing Officer. A post of Superintendent of River Police (SP), Assam was created for overall administration of the river district. As per the information received from a notification of Assam Police as on 04.01.2021; Shri Kamal Kumar Gupta, APS, was the Superintendent of River Police Organisation. The River Police District is consisted of 4 River police stations and 6 River Police Out Posts manned by 9 Sub Inspectors, 104 Constables and 10 Boatmen; as per the sanctioned strength. 

Goalpara (Panchatantra), Sualkuchi, Tezpur and Biswanath Ghat are the 4 River Police Stations of Assam along with 7 other River Police Out Posts in Buraburi (Mahamaya), Chanderdinga, Majeralga, Aye River, Beki River, Nagarbera, Pandu respectively in the districts of Dhubri, Bongaigaon (2 OPs), Barpeta, Kamrup and Kamrup (Metro). 

Their foremost duty? To thwart and unearth the clandestine dance of crime, unfolding like a hidden script on the aquatic stage. They are not only the custodians of law and order in the riverine routes and char areas of Brahmaputra but also with a vigilant eye, pierce through the shadows they forestall the incursion of extremism and the furtive whispers of smuggling of goods (primarily cattle) echoing along the riverine route. As the Brahmaputra's undulating expanse serves as a natural frontier, the River Police stand steadfast against the tide of illegal infiltration, a resolute bulwark against the currents of unauthorized entry. Their gaze extends beyond the rippling waters to the unauthorized boats that dare to traverse these liquid highways.

In this choreography of security, the riverine area stretches 110 kilometers along the India-Bangladesh border, a theater where the River Police execute their nuanced maneuvers. Yet, it's not just the fluid expanse that demands their attention; the terra firma of 137.72 kilometers along the India-Bangladesh border is also under their watchful gaze.

In the tale of Brahmaputra's guardians, the River Police emerge as the protagonists, navigating the currents of crime, maintaining order, and securing the borders with a grace that mirrors the river's own timeless flow. 

But, the organisation now is in a dilapidating state due to the negligence meted out by the successive governments. 

The personnel landscape within the river police organization serves as a vivid portrayal of the true nature of this pivotal branch within the State police force. As per sources, a mere 35 constables, a lone sub-inspector, and a solitary boatman constitute the manpower tasked with overseeing the operations of four river police stations and seven of its outposts. Strikingly, the organization currently lacks any female personnel within its ranks. A scanty fleet of seven steel sal boats stands as the meager arsenal at their disposal, with no speed boats to navigate the vast expanse of the riverine border under their jurisdiction. When the necessity for a speed boat arises, resorting to the engagement of private vessels becomes imperative. Even the recently inaugurated Pandu River Police Out Post finds itself contending with substandard facilities, underscoring the challenges faced by this vital arm of law enforcement.

In the labyrinth of trials that confront us, the fragility of safety and security along our waterways casts a disconcerting shadow. The lamentable condition of the River Police Organisation, marred by inadequacies, decay, and apprehensions about security, underscores the pressing demand for both attention and resources. It is imperative to address these issues promptly, channeling the necessary support to fortify the organization. Only through such measures we can guarantee the robust safeguarding of our citizens and the vital waterway infrastructures. A concerted effort is quintessential for the the critical tasks of preventing and detecting crime in the riverine route and char areas of the Brahmaputra, ensuring a shield against the myriad challenges that flow along its currents.

Theng Fakhri: Assam's First Woman Tehsildar

In the quaint corners of Assam's Goalpara district, the Bongaigaon district (probably Dhubri district too), and the three enchanting Barak Valley districts, the Tehsildari system has persisted through the corridors of time. This august office finds itself inextricably linked with the hallowed precincts of the Revenue Circle Officer's domain. Herein, the mantle of Tehsildar is graciously borne by the esteemed Revenue Circle Officer, assisted by a retinue of two or three diligent subordinates.

In the annals of Assam's bureaucratic history, a remarkable figure emerges, shattering the glass ceiling of convention. Theng Fakhri, an intrepid Bodo lady of unparalleled courage, etches her name as the pioneer among women Tehsildars. The first woman Tehsildar of Assam. History unfolds its pages to reveal that it was the discerning gaze of the British that appointed her to this distinguished role, hailing from Bijni area.

                                       

The indomitable spirit of Theng Fakhri finds its voice in the literary tapestry woven by the venerable Dr. Indira Goswami, a luminary adorned with the Gyanpith Award. Her work, 'Theng Fakri Tehsildaror Tamor Torowal,' (The Bronze Sword of Thengphakri Thesildar) stands as a testament to the extraordinary journey of Theng Fakhri, the trailblazing inaugural Indian Woman Tehsildar. 

The book celebrates the legacy of a brave Bodo lady; when young widows are burnt alive with their husband by force she was collecting taxes galloping on her horse shooting man eating tiger. In the epoch when the purdah system sought to retrogress the advancement of all young ladies, pushing them to the shadows of backwardness, she was silencing all the voices of a misogynist society with her actions and bravery by participating in India's freedom struggle putting on a hat on her knee length black hair.

The bronzed sword of Theng Fakhri not merely muted the cacophony of societal ills, but also aspired to forge a realm where the bedrock principles of society resonate with the values of acceptance and equality.

Globalization: A Blessings or Curse in 21st Century!!!

“Globalization is a complex issue, partly because economic only one part of it. Globalization is greater global closeness and that globalization is cultural, social, political as well as economic.”

                                                                                                       - Amartya Sen

The term “Globalization” has acquired considerable emotive force in 21^st century. It can be simply defined as a diverse phenomenon which relates to a multilateral political world and to the increase of cultural objects and markets between countries. It is a historical process, the result of human innovation and technological progress that refers to the increasing integration of economies worldwide particularly through trade and financial flows. It may be pictured as the threads of an immense spider web formed over millennia, with the number and reach of these threads increasing over time. People, money, material, goods, ideas, money and even disease and devastation have travelled these silken strands in greater numbers with greater speed than ever. Globalization started with Columbus’s voyage to the new world in 1492. Before that people traveled to nearby and faraway places exchanging their ideas, products and customs long away. The Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes across China, Central Asia and the Mediterranean used between 50 B.C.E and 250 C.E. is perhaps the most well known early example. The web of globalization continued to spin out through the age of revolution, where ideas about liberty, equality and fraternity spread like fire from America to France to Latin America and beyond. It rode the waves of industrialization, colonization and war through the centuries powered by the invention of factories, railways, ships, cars, planes, telegram, telephone, televisions etc. and now extended to a previously unconnected part of the “blue globe”.

According to IMF, four basic aspects of globalization are: 1) Trade and transactions, 2) Capital and investment movements, 3) Migration and movement of people, 4) Dissemination of knowledge. Globalization became familiar during industrial revolution and in the late 90s. The globalization of 20^th century was more about industry driven whereas in 21^st century it is more about technology and data driven. The integration of communication and computing is the technological revolution of our era. By 2014, the world had 96 mobiles and 40 internet users for every 100 inhabitants. The evolutionary transformation of world is increasingly making it interconnected and digital. The unparallel growth in 20^th century and crises in the emerging markets in the 1990s have made it quite evident that the opportunities of globalization don’t come without risks, hence the technology driven globalization of 21^st century is obviously much more dangerous.

The real thrust to the globalization process was provided by the New Economic Policy introduced by the Government of India in July 1991 at the behest of the IMF and the World Bank. Now, the markets and the flow of capitals have been shifted to the world of internet. Since the World Wide Web was first introduced, the world has made an outstanding progress by creating e-commerce in this century. From Amazon to flipkart, from Uber/Ola to Parking Rhino, from Netflix to Book my Show- everything is now digitalised for rapid and smooth interconnection making the world a small “Global Village”. Globalization has provided several advantages like- rise of foreign capital, quality improvement, rise in employment, rise in banking and foreign sector efficiency, accelerate human development, adoption of new flexible technological production method.

Like a snowball rolling down a steep mountain, globalization seems to be gathering more and more momentum and the question frequently asked about globalization is not whether it will continue, but at what pace!! We have to choose between a global market driven only by calculations of short term profit and one which has a human face. The downside to the globalization can be seen in the increased risk for the transmission of disease like corona virus or in the kind of environmental harm that is threatening the whole blue planet. According to several research works it was found that globalization is alarmingly increasing the “income gap” between the rich and the poor and also harming the workers’ interests. It is adversely affecting the small business and local producers. Just for example, local industries of states like Assam such as Bell metal industry of Sarthebari, bras metal industry of Hajo, Cane and bamboo industry, Silk industry of Suwalkuchi are now threaten by the rapid thrust of globalization.

Globalization is the ongoing process that is linking people, neighborhoods, cities, regions and countries much more closely together than they have ever been before. This has resulted in our living being intertwined with people in all parts of the world via the food we eat, the clothing we wear, the music we listen to, the information we get and the ideas we hold. Though a large part of world made a tremendous progress but also a major portion of countries like sub-Saharan Africa has been already left behind. Poverty is not only unacceptable on moral grounds; it also forms the breeding ground for war and terrorism. It is, therefore, the greatest challenge to peace and stability in the 21^st century. Reversing the process of globalization would not solve the problem of poverty- that was amply demonstrated by the events of the 20^th century. The world needs instead a new approach to globalization that exploits its enormous potential for improving human welfare. Ultimately, poor countries and weaker sections should not be poorer due to fruits of globalization are only available to the prosperous countries and the elite sections of the society. As Kofi Annan said, “If globalization is to succeed, it must succeed for poor and rich alike. It delivers rights no less than riches. It must provide social justice and equity; no must less than economic prosperity and enhanced communication.”

How can we create an investment friendly atmosphere to boost tourism in Assam and turn it into one of the most sought after destinations of the world?

  

       

                “Nowhere in the world, you can ever find even if you scour through life.”

-          Lakshminath Bezbaruah

      

Lying between 89°.50′ to 96°.10′ E. longitude and 24°.30′ to 28°.40′ N. latitude spreading over an geographical area of 78,438 sq. km, Assam is ‘the Shangri-La of the North-Eastern India’ situated at the foothills of eastern Himalayas and falls in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. Assam, with its sprawling tea gardens and unending stretches of paddy fields interspersed with groves of coconut, areca nuts, and banana trees, is one of the biggest States in the North East of India and the most accessible. It is a land that could mesmerize you with its mythology and magic; its flora and fauna; its diverse culture and the sheer variety in its population. Frolic of apes, graceful elephants, fluttering of wings & singing of birds, migratory birds flying into the hills, the majestic tiger enforcing his authority, all invite you to carry back home a little what the heaven is made of. This ancient kingdom of the Ahoms having breathtaking scenic beauty; mighty waterways; fertile valleys; dense forest; lofty hills and lush tea gardens, fascinated the rest of the world since the days of Hiuen-Tsang. This highland of red river and blue hills having bountiful natural resources in its womb; has a great potential of tourism as it possesses various historical monuments (like Ranghar, Talotal Ghar, Kareng Ghar etc.), wildlife sanctuaries and World Heritage Sites (like Kaziranga and Manas National Park), natural beauties (hills, Brahmaputra, Barak and its tributaries), spiritual and pilgrim sites (Satras of Majuli, Barpeta and Nagaon), industrial areas (Tea, petroleum and mining industries) and sites for adventure and golf courses. Despite of presence of such marvellous resources for tourism somewhere Assam is lacking behind the other states of India due to its improper, unplanned tourism policy and very limited availability of funds is constantly acting as resistance to create an investor friendly atmosphere to boost Assam tourism. To overcome such resistant factors, to maximize the footfalls to Assam making it a tourist hub of India and to make it a popular destination of world; we need to act in a planned manner so that we can bring an investor friendly atmosphere in Assam. For that we have to follow some steps that have been described below in a detail manner that will help in bringing the exposure need to boost the tourism industry of Assam:

·         Well maintenance of Resources: As described above Assam has great varieties of resources for the tourism industry. From ancient historical monuments to wildlife sanctuaries, from pilgrim sites to adventure sites, from tea industries to mining and petroleum industries, from its diverse culture to its diverse eco-systems, this highland has some great scopes or resources for tourism. But these resources need a proper maintenance. We often encounter examples regarding the damage of these resources due to improper maintenance like the Satras of Majuli, Monuments of Ahoms present in Sivasagar like Tolatol Ghar, Siva Doul etc. Mainly flood occurred during monsoons effect these resources including the bio-reserves present in Assam. The biggest problem regarding the maintenance of the resources in Assam is the illegal occupation of the bio-reserves which is severely affecting the eco system. So the Government, NGOs and local bodies should emphasize the matter of well maintenance of the resources of tourism so that it catalyses the development of tourism in Assam.

·          Development of Infrastructure: Though Assam has resources but it is not infrastructural well developed. To create an investment friendly atmosphere and to attract the private sectors it has to be copped up with recent technologies and a well developed infrastructure. Government should give importance in developing the infrastructural facilities including roads and communication system as the private sectors will always look for a profitable venture. Developed infrastructure always ensures an investment friendly atmosphere and will increase the tourist traffic to Assam. Government should primarily focus on the promotion of tourism and for strengthening up the infrastructural environment that would be attracting the investors to the state by taking help of some centrally funded scheme like NESIDS. Government of Assam may also submit proposals or appeal to the Central Government to get assistance from “World Bank Groups” for their investment to Assam at a minimum interest rate so that the infrastructural problem and fund problem may be overcome.  

·         Creating an “ease of business doing” environment and providing relaxation and subsidization by modifying the Tourism Policy of Assam: Government should be able to provide an “ease of business doing” environment for the investment sectors. They should ensure the private companies, MNCs the profits of investment in Assam along with motivating the entrepreneurship of the local individuals by creating an ease of business doing environment by exempting some amount of tax. Ease of doing environment facilitates properly to the investors for better and simpler regulations for businesses and stronger protection of property rights. Government should provide some relaxation and subsidy to the private sectors so that they can set up and make profits at initial stage. In this case the recent tourism policy will certainly help to make Assam a popular destination of world as it is providing single window clearance system and different amount of subsidy for the film industry who come and shoot in the state; like there will be an additional 10 per cent grant if the film's storyline is on Assam's culture, tourism and heritage, while another 10 per cent rebate will be offered if more than 50 per cent of the entire shooting is done in the state. This type of relaxation and subsidy will certainly attract the film industry to work in Assam and will give a exposure to Assam ensuring maximum footfalls.   

·         Proper promotional channels for the campaign of Assam Tourism: Assam is the gateway to the North Eastern states. Assam needs some proper promotional channels to reach the voice of the natural beauties of it to the world tourist. It needs a great amount of exposure. The Assam government has allocated Rs 15 crore to promote tourism in the state under ‘Awesome Assam’ brand focusing on the one-horned rhino; Assam Tea and the mighty Brahmaputra taking India’s International star Priyanka Chopra as the brand ambassador. Moreover the Govt. should be able to attract the youths as they love adventure and always want to explore the things. For that tourism needs a social media platform. There is a need to express the natural beauty of Assam in social media like facebook, twitter, youtube etc. and by maintaining a proper and detail website containing the information of tourist attractions present here. Carnivals and festivals like Namami Brahmaputra or Namami Barak can also attract the youth tourists to come here and enjoy the adventurous ride of the beauty of Assam and to explore it. But it will always need a proper way of promotion so that the tourist gets easily attracted towards this beautiful land.

·         Controlling the insurgencies:  The problem of insurgency has become the stumbling block in the course of development of Assam. It founded every development strategy and hampered all the development work. Kidnapping, extortion, killing, bandh, strikes, and curfews have become the order of the day. The foreign and the domestic tourists consider it risky to visit this part of the country, in view of the prevailing law and order situation. The general impression has been that any foreign or domestic tourist could be a soft target of the insurgents. This type of incidents happened some days back in Kaziranga National Park where some tourists were likely to be affected by the insurgents which was almost likely to affect the tourism in Assam. So the government should be able to control such insurgencies to boost tourism in Assam and will create a more investment friendly atmosphere.

·          Development of human resources by providing them training: Assam government should give importance to the development of the human resources by arranging training and workshops so that they can provide good hospitality behaviours to the tourists. Assam virtually does not have any trained guides in important places of tourist attraction. Consequently, as the tourists arrive at such a place there is hardly anyone to satisfy the inquisitiveness of the tourists. The Department of Tourism should initiate a programme to train tourist guides with more ethical and moral values by providing them a more hospitality behaviour. A good hospitality towards the tourists may act as a catalyst to boost the tourism. For the development of human resources government can also recognize and encourage excellence in tourism services and tourism products in the state.

Undoubtedly, Assam has a great amount of resources for the tourism industry and a great potential for investment friendly atmosphere but it is still lacking behind the other states only due to the less exposure or promotion to the world. If the factors that has been discussed above can be improve in a proper way there will arise a vibrant scope of enrichment of the tourism industry in Assam and will not only make a friendly atmosphere to invest but also will provide a great amount of benefits to the both public cum private sectors. These can make a positive step towards making Assam a popular sought after destinations of the world. Our continuous efforts and true participation for an investment friendly atmosphere can make the tourists more interesting towards Assam. Because as the tagline of says “Once you visit Assam, It stays with you forever”.