ASSAM

This recent archaeological discovery in Guwahati, Assam, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich and long-standing history. The unearthed stone pillar, a testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras, provides concrete evidence of human habitation in the region for centuries. Here’s a closer look at the significance of this find:

1. A Window to the Past: The intricately carved stone pillar, found abandoned near an electric pole, speaks volumes about the skilled artisans who once lived in Guwahati. It serves as a tangible link to the city’s past, reminding us of the vibrant cultural heritage that has shaped Assam.

2. Pragjyotishpur’s Legacy: The discovery reinforces the historical significance of Guwahati, previously known as Pragjyotishpur. Archaeologists estimate the city’s age to be around 1,000 years, and this find further solidifies its long-standing presence.

3. A City’s Evolution: The stone pillar, unlike modern concrete structures, highlights the transition of human habitation in Guwahati. It serves as a physical reminder of the city’s evolution over time, from ancient settlements to the bustling metropolis it is today.

4. A Call to Preservation: This discovery underscores the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. The stone pillar, a valuable artifact, deserves careful preservation and study to unlock further insights into Guwahati’s past.

5. A Source of Inspiration: The discovery of this ancient relic inspires a sense of wonder and connection to the past. It reminds us of the enduring legacy of our ancestors and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.

Guwahati’s cultural heart is beating stronger with the Assam government’s initiative to support the traditional Raas Mahotsav. This vibrant celebration of Lord Krishna’s life, deeply rooted in Assamese culture, is set to receive a much-needed boost. Here’s how:

1. Financial Aid for Preserving Tradition: The government is providing Rs 25,000 to nearly 2,000 Raas Mahotsav organizers. This financial assistance aims to ensure the continuity and growth of these festivals, which are vital in showcasing Assam’s rich heritage.

2. Focus on Authentic Performances: The government is emphasizing the importance of live dance drama performances in the Raas Mahotsav. This move ensures the preservation of the art form’s true essence and its connection to Assamese classical music and dance.

3. Easing the Burden on Communities: The cabinet has waived the fees required for obtaining permission to organize the Raas Mahotsav. This decision removes a significant financial barrier, allowing communities to celebrate their cultural traditions with greater enthusiasm and fervor.

4. Honoring a Legacy: The Raas Lila, with its roots in the Majuli river island district, has a rich history dating back to 1840. The government’s support recognizes the historical significance of this art form and its contribution to Assamese culture.

5. Empowering the Future: The government’s initiative is not just about preserving the past but also about empowering the future. By supporting the Raas Mahotsav, they are ensuring that this vibrant tradition continues to inspire and engage generations to come.

6. A Holistic Approach: The government’s support for the Raas Mahotsav is part of a larger effort to promote and preserve Assamese cultural heritage. This includes similar support for other festivals like Bohag Bihu and Durga Puja, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding the state’s cultural identity.

The Raas Mahotsav is more than just a festival; it’s a reflection of Assam’s soul. The government’s initiative is a testament to their commitment to nurturing this vital part of their cultural heritage.

Nameri National Park and Tiger Reserve, a jewel nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, is set to reopen its gates to visitors on October 30th, 2024, after a monsoon-induced closure. This picturesque park, known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Here’s a glimpse into what awaits visitors:

1. A Sanctuary of Biodiversity:

• Nameri boasts a rich tapestry of life, housing a diverse range of flora and fauna.
• From the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger to the elusive Clouded Leopard, the park is a haven for carnivores.
• Birdwatchers will be delighted by the vibrant plumage of numerous species, including the endangered White-winged Wood Duck.

2. A Paradise for Adventure Seekers:

• Nameri offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.
• Visitors can embark on thrilling rafting expeditions down the Jia Bhoroli River, navigating through scenic landscapes.
• Trekking trails wind through the park’s heart, offering glimpses of its hidden treasures.

3. A Commitment to Conservation:

• Recognizing the importance of wildlife conservation, the park implements responsible tourism practices.
• Trekking activities are suspended on Tuesdays to minimize disturbance to animals.
• The park’s management strives to balance visitor enjoyment with the well-being of its inhabitants.

4. A Gateway to the Northeast:

• Nameri serves as a gateway to the diverse ecosystems of Northeast India.
• Its proximity to the Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh creates a vast expanse of protected forests, crucial for wildlife corridors.

5. A Symphony of Nature:

• Nameri’s beauty lies not just in its wildlife but also in its serene landscapes.
• Lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and the meandering Jia Bhoroli River create a symphony of nature’s artistry.

6. A Call to Action:

• The park’s elephant population faces challenges due to habitat loss.
• Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their impact and support conservation efforts to ensure the future of this magnificent species.

Nameri National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, experience adventure, and contribute to the preservation of this precious ecosystem. It’s a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

The Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, a haven for diverse wildlife, welcomes tourists with open arms and a renewed focus on responsible tourism. This season, the park is buzzing with activity, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and its inhabitants. Here’s a glimpse into the human-wildlife interaction at Kaziranga:

1. Elephant Safari: A Gentle Ride into the Wild:

The park offers elephant safaris, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Kaziranga from a different perspective. This year, 10 elephants are deployed at Kohora range and 35 at Bagori Forest Range, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for tourists. The traditional elephant puja, a symbolic gesture of respect for these magnificent creatures, further emphasizes the park’s commitment to ethical tourism.

2. A Surge in Tourism: A Testament to Kaziranga’s Appeal:

The park has witnessed a significant increase in tourist footfall, particularly international visitors. This surge reflects the growing global interest in experiencing the unique biodiversity of Kaziranga. The park’s commitment to conservation and responsible tourism practices has undoubtedly contributed to this positive trend.

3. Protecting the Wildlife: A Collaborative Effort:

The park authorities are vigilant in their efforts to protect the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. The recent apprehension of two poachers highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between the forest department and local authorities in safeguarding the park’s precious ecosystem.

4. Balancing Tourism and Conservation: A Delicate Dance:

The park’s success in attracting tourists while maintaining a safe and healthy environment for its wildlife is a testament to the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. The park’s commitment to responsible tourism practices, including the use of eco-friendly vehicles and strict anti-poaching measures, ensures that the future of Kaziranga remains bright.

5. A Humanistic Approach: Connecting with Nature:

The elephant safaris, the surge in tourism, and the ongoing efforts to protect wildlife all point to a humanistic approach to wildlife tourism. The park recognizes the importance of connecting humans with nature, fostering a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural world.

6. A Call for Responsible Tourism:

The success of Kaziranga serves as a model for other wildlife sanctuaries, demonstrating the potential of responsible tourism to contribute to conservation efforts. By respecting the environment and the animals that inhabit it, we can ensure that future generations can experience the wonders of Kaziranga and other natural treasures.

Cabinet ministerPijush Hazarikasaid, UnderPrarthanascheme, so far there are around 6,000 such beneficiaries (next of kin). The grant will be provided under this scheme. The amount will be handed over to beneficiaries onGandhi Jayanti. The has already rolled out two other schemes for children orphaned due to Covid and Women who have lost their husbands to the pandemic. Each child, who has lost both parents, has been given a fixed deposit certificate of principal amount ofRs 7,81,200, a cheque of Rs 3,500 as the first monthly assistance which will continue till they attain the age of 24 years. On completion of 24 years of age, the principal amount parked as fixed deposit against each beneficiary would be credited to their bank accounts.
Under the scheme, for children below 10 years and adolescent girls with no guardian, the state government is taking steps to house such children in childcare institutions and provide funding towards their upkeep, including educational expenditure. Women who have lost their husbands have been given Rs 2.5 lakh as one-time support from theCMs relief fund and will also be entitled to the benefits of Arunodoi scheme along with a monthly widow pension under the ongoingIndira Miri Universal Widow PensionScheme.

Despite a significant dip in the positive cases, still around 20 Covid deaths were being reported in the state daily till recently. The number of fatalities remains a concern, though Barman said the number of Covid deaths has been static of late.

More than Assam, the gateway to the northeast, the bigger worry is other hilly states in the region now. Positivity rate in East Khasi Hills district ofMeghalaya, including capitalShillongstill remains above 10 per cent, while the positivity rate in most districts of Assam remains within 2 per cent.

The aim behind this decision is to facilitate more deserving families to apply for new ration cards under the National Act (NFSA), 2013.

The Council of ministers also decided to set up an Adivasi Welfare and Development Council in accordance with the Adivasi accord signed on September 15, 2022, Barua said. The Council will address political, economic and educational aspirations, protect, preserve and promote social, cultural, linguistic and ethnic identities and ensure accelerated and focussed development of Adivasi-inhabited areas and tea garden areas, the Minister said.

The cabinet also decided to pay Rs 1 lakh each as compensation to 1,496 casual labour families of Doloo Tea Estate and Rs2.50 lakh for construction of houses to 173 families who would be displaced for a proposed Greenfield airport.

The cabinet also decided to amend the Assam Gratuity Act to clear confusion regarding the definition of ‘gratuity wage’ and remove the wage ceiling of Rs 2,500, the Minister said.

Over 500 embankment breaches by the ravaging annualfloodswere recorded inAssamin the past one decade (2013-2022), according toAssam State Disaster Management Authority(ASDMA). The state saw the highest breaches in 2015 when 283 breaches were recorded.

According to data provided by the ASDMA, a total of 40 breaches were recorded last year and consequently over 88 lakh Population across all the existing 35 districts (before the re-merged four districts with their parent districts in December last year) in the state.

TheAssamassembly passed several amendments to the four-month-old cattle preservation law that tightens slaughter guidelines but re-opens inter-district movement of cattle, except to districts bordering Bangladesh.

Cattle will now be allowed to be slaughtered only in a slaughter house duly licensed or recognized by the state and there will be no exemptions which the principal Act, Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, had provided. As per provisons of the the original Act, “the may exempt certain places of worship or certain occasions for slaughter of cattle other than calf, heifer andcowfor religious purposes.” This provision has now been omitted by the amendment.

The amended bill also empowers Police to seize and auction vehicles that were used to transport cattle illegally. The amendments also empower the police to enter the house of an accused and inspect, search and seize properties acquired in the last six years with Money earned from illegal cattle trade.