In a tribute to the late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted on Monday that Vajpayee harbored a “soft spot” for the northeast, evident in policies that favored the region. Sarma highlighted the continuation of these “pro-northeast” policies under the current regime.
The occasion was the ‘Susashan Divas’ (good governance day) celebration hosted by the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority, marking the 99th birth anniversary of Vajpayee. Sarma pointed out the establishment of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) during Vajpayee’s tenure, aimed at accelerating the region’s development process.
Expressing commitment to transforming Vajpayee’s aspirations for the northeast into reality, Chief Minister Sarma emphasised that ongoing efforts are underway under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sarma also recalled Vajpayee’s significant contributions to good governance and administrative efficiency, attributing the foundation of a developed India to the late leader. He specifically mentioned milestones such as the successful atomic weapon testing at Pokhran and the expansion of national highway networks during Vajpayee’s term.
As part of the commemoration, Chief Minister Sarma laid the foundation stone for a statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the Atal Udyan, according to an official release.
