Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for constructing Jongal Balahu Tourist Centre at an expenditure of Rs 50 crore in Nagaon district.
Addressing a public meeting at Raha, Sarma lauded the efforts of Tiwa community and said it has contributed immensely towards enriching Assam’s cultural mosaic.
After the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Jongal Balahu Tourist Centre at Jongal Balahu Rampart, he said the centre will help throw light on the community’s role in building an inclusive society.
Earlier, the Chief Minister visited the historic Jongal Balahu Garh at Raha and offered floral tributes at the statue of great Tiwa king Jongal Balahu.
“The brave warrior, who valiantly fought to safeguard his land and people, will always remain an inspiration for the people of Assam,” he added.
Sarma said that to commemorate the great warrior and contributions of the Tiwa community as a whole, the archaeological site at Raha will be transformed into Jongal Balahu Kshetra.
“The Rs 50-crore project to be funded by NABARD will comprise cycle track, EV track, hanging bridge, chang ghar, deka chang, amphitheatre, museum among others,” he added.
The Chief Minister also sought public cooperation in developing a two-lane approach road to the Jongal Balahu tourist spot.
Later, attending the concluding day of the Nazirating Tamuli Tourism Festival at Digboi in Tinsukia district, Sarma announced Rs 3 crore for the infrastructural development of the Nazirating Tamuli tourism circuit.
“In line with Tawang Festival in Arunachal Pradesh and Cherry Blossom Festival in Meghalaya, Assam Government has plans to transform the Nazirating Tamuli Tourism Festival into one of the most sought after tourism events of the state,” he added.
