A CORRESPONDENT
DIBRUGARH: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated a series of key development projects aimed at boosting sports infrastructure and community facilities in the region.
The Union Minister dedicated the newly constructed Assam Cricket Association (ACA) Pavilion and Indoor Cricket Hall in Dibrugarh, marking a new chapter in the district’s sporting landscape.
Sonowal also inaugurated development works at Bindhakata Higher Secondary School — including a boundary wall, ceremonial gate, footpath, kitchen, guard room and drainage facilities worth Rs 90 lakh, as well as a newly built additional classroom block worth Rs 51.22 lakh.
Further, Sonowal inaugurated a modern gymnasium facility at Mulukgaon Uddipta Yuvak Sangha, installed at a cost of Rs 10 lakh under his MPLAD funds for 2022–23 and 2023–24.
Speaking at the event, Sonowal said sports are a unifying force and called upon the youth to embrace education, culture and sports with equal commitment.
“Sports instil discipline, teamwork and teamwork. They also shape a positive mindset and personality,” Sonowal said. “Inspired by Bhupen Hazarika’s immortal lyrics, ‘Ei Prithibi Ek Krirangan, Krira Hol Shantir Prangan,’ we must march forward with renewed spirit and make Assam a powerhouse in India’s sporting future.”
Sonowal highlighted the government’s efforts to identify and nurture hidden talent in Assam’s sporting arena. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives such as the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Sonowal said the government’s focus on athlete support has led to India’s improved performance at national and international competitions.
“Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi, a renaissance has begun in India’s sporting world,” Sonowal said. “Assam must also rise as a leading sporting state in the country. Just as Riyan Parag has brought glory to Assam and India in cricket, I hope more such champions emerge from our soil.”
Sonowal urged the youth to balance dedication across education, culture and sports, stressing that discipline in these three pillars would build a stronger society.
The Union Minister also praised Prime Minister Modi’s governance, saying the past 11 years have transformed India into a strong, modern nation guided by good governance. He contrasted this with what he termed the “dark era of corruption, authoritarianism and scandals” during the Congress regime.
“In just over a decade, Prime Minister Modi has delivered what Congress could not achieve in 55 years,” Sonowal said. “Through honesty, determination and dedication, he has brought unprecedented transformation, making India a respected power on the global stage.”
Sonowal highlighted how government schemes have lifted 25 crore people out of poverty and empowered youth through employment, start-ups and innovation. Sonowal expressed confidence that with Modi’s leadership, India’s youth would continue to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
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