Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing the ‘Unity Utsav – One Voice, One Nation’ organized by the Assam Rifles, made a strong appeal to insurgent groups in the Northeast to lay down arms and join the mainstream for the region’s development. Shah emphasized that their participation in India’s development journey was crucial and welcomed, especially as the region seeks peace and progress.
“I appeal to all those insurgents who have not surrendered yet to lay down their arms and join the mainstream. Your participation in India’s development journey is welcome,” said Shah. The Home Minister also highlighted significant improvements in the region, pointing out that violence has decreased by 70% over the past five years, with a notable reduction in both security force casualties and civilian deaths. He further mentioned that over 10,000 insurgents had surrendered during this period, and 12 peace accords had been signed with various groups.
Shah stressed the importance of the Northeast in India’s national fabric, noting that the region is home to rich traditions, cultures, and languages. He pointed to the unity and diversity of the Northeast, which consists of over 220 different communities, 160 tribes, and 50 unique festivals. “Unity in diversity is our strength,” Shah added, underlining the region’s cultural significance.
The Home Minister also announced major infrastructure developments, stating that by 2027, all eight northeastern states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, and Sikkim—would have direct air connectivity to Delhi. Shah also noted the establishment of the country’s first sports university in Manipur, emphasizing the Northeast’s role in India’s ambitions for the 2036 Olympics.
Shah’s remarks reflected the Centre’s ongoing commitment to the region’s progress, aiming to open up “unlimited opportunities for the youth of the Northeast” in fields ranging from sports to education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.
At the event, Shah congratulated Manipur for its impressive performance, with students from the state bagging most of the prizes. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had decided that India’s first sports university would be established in Manipur, further solidifying the state’s role in shaping the nation’s sporting future.