In sync with the grand celebration of Republic Day in Guwahati, for the first ever, the momentous occasion was celebrated in Dibrugarh with the unfurling of the Tricolour by Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma at Khanikar Parade Ground. This move reflects the Assam Government’s visionary approach towards decentralizing governance and driving inclusive development. Calling it a ‘Red Letter Day’ for Dibrugarh, the Chief Minister said, ‘Once plagued by curfews and boycotts, Dibrugarh now stands as the center of Assam’s Republic Day celebrations. This remarkable journey reflects the strength and resilience of Bharat, the world’s greatest republic.” He highlighted how the town, which was once at the heart of insurgency and militancy, faced regular boycotts, effectively shutting down on Republic and Independence Days. He said that the successful celebration of the 76th Republic Day symbolizes Assam’s transformation into a safe state for investors, tourists, and citizens alike. The colourful parade showcased the prowess of Assam Police and embodied the spirit of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat with performances representing the cultural diversity of India, from Assam to Kerala. In his address, the Chief Minister also announced a series of development initiatives for Dibrugarh and the State: Dibrugarh to become Assam's second capital: The Assembly Complex in the city will be operational by 2027. Infrastructure development: Ongoing projects to enhance connectivity through improved roadways, railways, and airports in the region. Industrial growth: Dibrugarh is emerging as a key commercial hub in Upper Assam, with increased investments in the tea, oil, and gas sectors. On the State’s holistic development, the Chief Minister shared plans for: Tezpur as Assam’s Cultural Capital: Tezpur will house a Raj Bhawan, with projects to highlight the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Barak Valley developments: A Mini Secretariat and Chief Secretary's office will be established in Silchar to ensure better administrative accessibility. In a significant move for the State Government employees, the Chief Minister announced that those employed before 2005 would be covered under the Unified Pension Scheme, which guarantees 50% of the last drawn salary, along with other benefits, "The new pension scheme has now been effectively rolled back," he confirmed. To foster entrepreneurship, the State will soon establish a Department of Start-ups, designed to support and nurture budding entrepreneurs. Additionally, in celebration of the "Year of Reading" State Government employees will be provided up to ₹1,000 per month to purchase books. The Chief Minister also announced a ₹3 lakh financial assistance programme for 25,000 Namghars across the State, along with ₹1,500 monthly support for Udaxin Bhakats, focused at preserving Assam’s rich heritage. “We are not just building infrastructure; we are building hope and unity. A developed Assam means that every town, village, and citizen feels connected to the State’s progress,” the Chief Minister concluded. Marking a pivotal moment in Assam’s journey, the Republic Day celebrations showcased the State’s transformation under strong leadership, with an eye toward a unified and prosperous future. Later in the day, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stones of four new flyovers in Dibrugarh, part of a ₹377-cr project covering a cumulative length of 4.4 kilometres.
