The Impressive TimesDhemaji (Assam), January 30: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday addressed the 10th Mising Youth Festival in Assam’s Dhemaji district, emphasizing the role of cultural unity, youth empowerment, and development in strengthening tribal communities and the nation.
Sharing the stage with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and other leaders, Shah said festivals like this demonstrate that the protection of tribal identity, language, art, and traditions is achieved through cultural strength rather than violence.
Referring to the Mising community’s traditional Donyi-Polo faith, Shah said the practice of nature worship carries a universal message about harmony with the environment. He described the Mising culture as an important part of India’s diverse civilizational fabric and praised its contribution to preserving ecological balance.
The Home Minister announced that the Centre will conduct special recruitment drives for Mising youth in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), offering greater participation of the community in national security.
He also pointed to Assam’s improving employment landscape, mentioning large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects, including a semiconductor manufacturing unit expected to generate thousands of jobs. He said technological manufacturing from Assam would soon gain international recognition.
Shah highlighted major connectivity projects in the region, including the Bogibeel Bridge, calling it a transformative project that strengthened links across the Brahmaputra and boosted regional growth. He credited local communities for their contribution to such development works.
He added that the Centre has significantly increased financial support for Assam over the past decade in sectors such as roads, railways, and aviation, accelerating economic progress in the Northeast.
The Home Minister noted that Assam has seen improved peace in recent years, with many youths choosing development and education over conflict. He said several peace agreements have helped bring former militants into the mainstream, enabling a more stable environment for growth.
He also mentioned expanded educational initiatives, including recognition of Mising language in primary education, aimed at preserving linguistic heritage while improving access to learning.
Shah spoke about the government’s efforts to address demographic challenges and infiltration issues, saying new institutional mechanisms have been created to study and respond to such concerns. He emphasized the need for lawful and systematic measures to protect local communities’ interests while ensuring national security.
Reaffirming the Centre’s focus on tribal development, Shah said government schemes for education, cultural preservation, and economic upliftment have been expanded in recent years. He noted increased funding for tribal welfare programmes and residential schools aimed at improving opportunities for young people from indigenous communities.
Calling the Mising community an integral part of India’s identity, Shah said their traditions, sacrifices, and resilience continue to inspire the nation.
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