New Delhi witnessed an engaging dialogue recently as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the Northeast as the "heart and soul of Bharat" during the media conclave dubbed 'The Conclave 2024'. The event, organized by Pratidin Media Network, served as the backdrop for Dhankhar’s passionate call for increased media attention on the region's untapped potential, particularly concerning tourism and development.
Dhankhar's speech illuminated the rich natural beauty and cultural heritage of Northeast India, urging media professionals to act as ambassadors, showcasing the area's diverse opportunities. "Each state is like paradise," he proclaimed, making vivid comparisons, stating, "Put together New Zealand, Switzerland, and Scotland, and you will still fall short of the wealth of the Northeast." His assertion reflects the belief of many locals who have long known the charm of regions like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur.
Touching on the governance aspect, Dhankhar spoke about the impressive strides made under the government's 'Act East' policy. According to him, the Northeast has witnessed substantial advancements in connectivity, with the number of airports doubling and waterway expansions growing twentyfold, significantly boosting national interest and investment. "This transformation is sparking immense interest and investment nationwide," he noted, highlighting the fundamental shift this signifies for the region's potential.
Further enriching his discourse, Dhankhar noted the recognition of Assamese, alongside other regional languages like Bengali and Marathi, as classical languages. He remarked, "This recognition carries positive ripple effects, showcasing the cultural heritage of our bilingual nation and its diversity." Such acknowledgments can potentially encourage tourism and investment, as they shine light on the rich traditions and histories embedded within these communities.
DHankhar didn’t shy away from mentioning iconic locales within the Northeast, prominently citing the Kamakhya temple and Kaziranga National Park. The Kamakhya temple, renowned for its significance, is not only a pilgrimage site but also a stunning architectural marvel. Meanwhile, Kaziranga, famed for its one-horned rhinoceros, stands as a beacon of conservation efforts on Indian soil. He exclaimed, "Where do you get blessings? Kamakhya. Where do you see such rich biodiversity? Kaziranga?" His vivid descriptions made it clear these landmarks could serve as central attractions to amplify regional tourism.
Drawing parallels between Northeast India and Kashmir, Dhankhar presented the latter's tourism boom as indicative of potential for similar advancements in the Northeast. Reflecting on his past experiences, he recalled, "Back in the 1990s when I visited Srinagar, the streets were deserted. Last year, over 2 crore tourists flocked to Jammu and Kashmir! This transformation is nothing short of inspiring." His words not only aim to draw parallels but also ignite hope for rejuvenation through tourism and economic growth.
With tourism as his primary focus, Dhankhar emphasized its transformative power, stating, "Tourism can shift the entire economy of the Northeast, driving exponential employment growth and positioning the region as a global tourist hub." This assertion aligns with numerous reports highlighting the direct correlation between regional tourism promotion and economic recovery.
During his address, Dhankhar spoke earnestly of the media's role: "You can fuel development by showcasing local opportunities." He stressed the need for responsible journalism, declaring media not just as informants but watchdogs of democracy. "Your stories must illuminate unique chances across our diverse regions!" he urged, calling for not just positivity but education and engagement.
Not one to overlook the challenges faced by media, Dhankhar recognized the threats posed by misinformation and sensationalism. He cautioned, "While false narratives might grab attention, they can erode the fabric of our society. The media must actively combat these challenges to uphold democratic values." His plea became increasingly relevant amid the rapidly changing digital information environment where truth often battles against misleading narratives.
Reflecting on historical economic struggles, Dhankhar also placed today's achievements within a broader narrative of growth. "There was a time our foreign reserves were dwindling, we even had to ship our gold abroad for credibility! Today, our foreign reserves stand at $700 billion, showcasing incredible resilience!" His comparative lens offered not just nostalgia, but substantial motivation for embracing progress.
This call to action found its echo among attendees, including ministers and media heads, showing clear alignment on the vision for the Northeast. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal was present, endorsing the sentiment exuded by Dhankhar, promising efforts directed at achieving the region's full potential.
Dhankhar’s remarks at the conclave undeniably set the tone for continuous dialogue focusing on the Northeast's development. By combining cultural richness, tourism potential, and connectivity advancements, the region is poised for growth, echoing the Vice President’s resounding assertion — the Northeast is, without doubt, the heart and soul of Bharat.
