ASSAM

The Guwahati Municipal Corporation’s (GMC) Satpukhuri water supply plant will be shut down for two days starting Tuesday, impacting 16 localities and approximately 15,000 households. This disruption is due to essential restoration work at the plant’s intake point, which processes 22.5 million litres of water daily. The affected areas include Uzanbazar, Silpukhuri, Chandmari, and several others. The Satpukhuri facility, established in 1930 and upgraded in 1984, operates alongside the Panbazar and Kamakhya plants to provide water to the city. This temporary suspension highlights the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure and the potential impact on residents when such facilities require repairs.

Despite facing financial hardships, skilled artisans in Phulaguri, Nagaon district, are meticulously crafting elaborate costumes for the upcoming Raas Mahotsav, a festival celebrating Lord Krishna’s divine love. For generations, Phulaguri has been renowned for its exquisite costumes, ornaments, and accessories, essential for Raas performances. However, rising material costs and low profitability have discouraged younger generations from continuing the tradition, leading to a dwindling number of artisans. Despite these challenges, dedicated artisans like Tankeswar Nath remain committed to preserving this cultural heritage, creating costumes for various characters and supporting performers by offering affordable prices. While facing financial constraints, they are determined to ensure the vibrant performances continue, showcasing their dedication to preserving centuries-old traditions.

A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Conservation reveals a remarkable three-fold increase in tiger population density in Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Assam, India. This surge, observed between 2011 and 2019, is attributed to enhanced conservation efforts by the state forest department and local communities, coupled with increased funding and improved protection infrastructure. The study, conducted by a team led by Aaranyak, a leading biodiversity conservation organization, highlights the effectiveness of collaborative conservation strategies in post-conflict regions. The study found a 12% yearly growth rate in tiger population, with the number of adult tigers increasing from eight in 2011-2012 to 44 in 2018-2019. This success is attributed to the park’s location within the Transboundary Manas Conservation Area (TraMCA), a vast interconnected forest landscape spanning India and Bhutan, which provides crucial habitat for tigers. The study also emphasizes the importance of thriving tourism revenue, which has bolstered management budgets and contributed to the park’s conservation efforts. While the recovery of tiger populations in Manas is a significant achievement, the study also acknowledges ongoing challenges such as poaching and habitat loss, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and management to ensure the long-term sustainability of tiger populations in the region.

The Assam government will install a statue of Babu Chabilal Upadhyaya, a prominent Gorkha leader and freedom fighter, in Guwahati. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has instructed the GMDA to choose a suitable location for the statue and consult with Upadhyaya’s family. Meanwhile, Guwahati’s riverfront development project is on track to open in 2025, offering stunning views of the Brahmaputra River. The Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Bill is holding discussions in Guwahati today to gather input on the bill’s proposed reforms. However, the INDIA bloc has accused Sarma of inciting communal tension with his recent speeches targeting Muslims, demanding action against him for his inflammatory rhetoric.

Guwahati residents are staging a human chain protest against the proposed felling of over 70 trees, including centenarian specimens, for a flyover project in Bharalumukh. This protest follows a recent victory where public pressure led to the redesign of the Noonmati-Ambari flyover, saving trees near Dighalipukhuri. The Citizens’ Coordination Committee, led by Khanindra Lal Sharma, argues that the flyover construction would negatively impact the area’s residents and emphasizes the need for public consultation in developmental projects. The protest aims to highlight the importance of community engagement in significant local projects and seeks to establish meaningful dialogue with authorities regarding the flyover’s development. While Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced design changes to the Ambari-Noonmati flyover to protect trees near Dighalipukhuri, residents remain concerned about the impact of the Bharalumukh flyover project on the environment and community.

The Gauhati High Court is pressuring the Assam government to expedite the notification of the State Child Protection Policy and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Rules, which are expected by the end of the year. The court has also directed the state to report on the constitution of Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) in each district, highlighting concerns about the lack of proper JJBs in several areas. The delay in implementing these crucial policies has been a source of concern, with the court expressing its dissatisfaction with the government’s progress. The petition filed by Bachpan Bachao Andolan, a charitable society, in 2019, brought to light the lack of adequate POCSO court facilities in the state. The court’s intervention underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the protection and well-being of children in Assam.

The Union Home Secretary, Govind Mohan, has instructed the Assam government to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study on 271 wetlands for flood water diversion by December 2024. This ambitious project, estimated to cost up to Rs 500 crore, aims to mitigate flooding in the state by connecting these wetlands to tributaries of the Brahmaputra River. The project is based on a study by the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) which identified the wetlands with potential for flood water storage. The Assam government has already begun work on nine wetlands in seven districts, with a proposed budget of Rs 380.60 crore. However, the Union Home Secretary has emphasized the need for a detailed survey of all 271 wetlands to assess their feasibility for flood control. This project is expected to significantly impact flood management in Assam, particularly by addressing the overflow of tributaries rather than directly managing the Brahmaputra River’s water level.

Bhupen Hazarika, a renowned Assamese singer, composer, and filmmaker, played a pivotal role in advocating for the comprehensive study and research of the Assamese language, which recently achieved classical language status. His compositions, like “Koto Jowanor Mrityu Hol” and “Modarore Ful,” showcase his deep understanding of the language, its cultural diversity, traditions, geography, and history. Hazarika’s work, characterized by its linguistic sophistication and scholarly preparation, elevated the Assamese language to new heights, making him a prominent figure in the modern era of Assamese language development.

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.