On March 15, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in Dergaon, Assam, marking a pivotal development not only for the state but also for the entire Northeast region of India. The academy is named after the legendary Ahom general Lachit Barphukan, who is celebrated for his valor against the Mughal invaders. This initiative is part of the government's broader agenda to fortify policing capabilities and establish Assam as the premier location for police training.
The Lachit Barphukan Police Academy has started its operations with the completion of its first phase, which cost ₹167 crore. A total investment of ₹1050 crore is planned across three phases. Amit Shah emphasized the significance of this academy during its inauguration, stating, "Within the next five years, this academy will be ranked first among all police academies in India." This ambitious goal serves as motivation not just for the institution but also for the personnel it trains, ensuring law enforcement is equipped with state-of-the-art skills and facilities.
One of the academy's primary functions is to provide comprehensive training to police personnel. Previously, Assam’s police were required to travel to other states for training, which was not always practical or efficient. With this new facility, the academy has already trained 2,000 police personnel from states like Goa and Manipur, showcasing its immediate impact even before it is fully operational.
By honoring Lachit Barphukan’s legacy, the academy aims to inspire future generations with tales of courage and leadership. It plays a significant role not just as a training ground but also as a center for instilling pride and historical awareness among law enforcement officials. The Modi government has taken steps to promote Barphukan’s legacy, ensuring his biography is now available in 23 languages across libraries throughout India.
The inauguration event also faced scrutiny about broader issues concerning development and peace within the region. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, several key peace agreements, including the Bodoland Agreement (2020) and the Karbi Anglong Agreement (2021), have been instrumental. These efforts have resulted in over 10,000 militants surrendering and reintegrates them back to society, significantly reducing regional insurgency.
Assam itself is undergoing considerable development, with substantial investments pouring in. A ₹27,000 crore semiconductor industry is being established, as highlighted during the Advantage Assam 2.0 investment summit, which led to MoUs worth ₹5.18 lakh crore, focusing on various infrastructure projects valued at ₹3 lakh crore.
Recent infrastructure initiatives include the Bharatmala Project with ₹10,000 crore earmarked for road construction, the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge costing ₹3,000 crore, and the expansion of Gopinath Airport with an investment of ₹1,200 crore. These projects are not merely about building physical structures—they symbolize Assam’s forward momentum toward becoming an industrial and infrastructural hub.
A significant measure of success can also be seen through improvements in law enforcement metrics. The conviction rate across Assam has impressively risen from 5% to over 25% within recent years. Authorities cite these statistics as evidence of effective governance initiatives and prioritization of justice reforms. The Assam Police, traditionally focused on counter-terrorism, is shifting its approach to encompass broader citizens' rights and criminal justice systems.
The importance of social welfare initiatives cannot be overstated. The current government has ensured the supply of tap water to 58 lakh households for the first time, provided free medical treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh for 1.8 crore people, and contributed to improved sanitation through toilets for 43 lakh households. Other measures include distributing 5 kg of free rice each month to 2.32 crore individuals, along with offers of gas cylinders and housing as part of various state-led schemes.
Amit Shah concluded the inauguration by projecting a bright future for Assam, stating, "The state is on track to witness unprecedented growth. With investments upwards of ₹5 lakh crore, we are creating massive employment opportunities for the young population here." This vision articulates not just economic aspirations but also aims to transform Assam's image as a hub of peace and development.
The newly established Lachit Barphukan Police Academy is not just about training law enforcement; it embodies the aspirations and pride of the people of Assam, anchoring them firmly to their rich cultural heritage and paving the way for more secure and prosperous futures.
