Northeast: The Heart and Soul of Bharat: Vice-President
Delhi, Oct 4
The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today declared that the Northeast is the heart and soul of Bharat, urging the media to champion the region’s potential in tourism and development.He emphasized that the Northeast is not just a geographic region but a vibrant tapestry of cultures, traditions, and natural beauty that embodies the essence of India.
Delivering the keynote address at ‘The Conclave 2024’ organized by Pratidin Media Network in New Delhi today, Shri Dhankhar highlighted the transformative impact of the Government’s “Act Eastpolicy” and the importance of media in shaping national narratives.
“Put together New Zealand, Switzerland, and Scotland, and you will still fall short of the wealth of the Northeast. Each state in the region is a paradise for visitors, tourists, and locals alike,” he remarked. The Vice-President emphasized the significant strides made in improving connectivity, calling it a game-changer for the region. “The number of airports has doubled, and waterways have expanded twentyfold, sparking immense interest and investment nationwide,” he added.
Shri Dhankhar also highlighted the recent recognition of Assamese, alongside Bengali, Marathi, Pali, and Prakrit, as one of the five out of eleven classical languages of India. “This designation carries a positive ripple effect, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diversity of our nation,” he stated.
The Vice-President also mentioned the region’s rich spiritual and natural heritage, mentioning the revered Kamakhya temple and the world-famous Kaziranga National Park. “Where do you get blessings? Kamakhya. Where do you see a sanctuary of the kind? Kaziranga,” he said, underscoring the divine and ecological significance of the Northeast.
Shri Dhankhar expressed his admiration for the vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, and the energy of the people of the Northeast. “I cannot describe in words the kind of cultural fiesta I experienced there,the Northeast is the heart and soul of Bharat” he remarked, reflecting on his participation in the ASEAN summit in Phnom Penh, where the significance of the “Act East” policy was made clear.