Tezpur University (TU) has recently entered into a significant agreement with the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) to foster economic, agricultural, and educational advancements in the Bodo-dominated regions of Assam. The BTC, an autonomous elected authority, was established under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to cater to the needs of the tribal Bodo community in Assam.
Pramod Boro, the Chief Executive Member of BTC, expressed that the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signifies a joint effort between the council and Tezpur University to promote innovation, expand educational opportunities, and accelerate overall growth in the region. A chair named after the late Upendra Nath Brahma, often referred to as the "Father of Bodos" or "Bodofa," will be established at TU, which is a central university.
Upon learning about the agreement, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his appreciation for the development on Twitter. He stated that it was wonderful news and emphasized that Bodofa Upendranath Brahma had dedicated his life to uplifting the people. The Chief Minister believed that the agreement would provide much-needed momentum in enhancing scholarship on Brahma's values and teachings. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, TU Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh, BTC Chief Boro, and other dignitaries.
Boro mentioned that once the Upendra Nath Brahma chair becomes fully functional, the BTC will provide scholarships to five deserving students. Governor Kataria commended the signing of the MoU as a new beginning for BTC areas and TU, highlighting the significant contribution it would make to the academic and overall growth of the state.
In addition to the MoU, Governor Kataria inaugurated a smart village project in Jhawani village, Sonitpur district. The project aims to uplift rural livelihoods through the implementation of smart and sustainable technologies, including solar-powered plants, oil and pulse mills, cold storage facilities, and fishery development.
Boro emphasized that the Bodo community faces limited employment opportunities in the underdeveloped region. He stated that they had been fighting for their identity for years, and their leader, Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, had worked tirelessly to create a better future for their community.
Therefore, he emphasized the need to embrace new ideas, create opportunities for the youth, and invest in knowledge and skills essential for thriving in the 21st century. VC Shambhu Nath Singh of Tezpur University expressed his enthusiasm for the MoU, describing it as a momentous occasion that embodies progress, collaboration, and the realization of aspirations.
Geetartha Darshan Barua, Officer Special Duty (OSD) to CEM, BTC, shed light on the background of the MoU, emphasizing key areas of cooperation such as the development of knowledge centers and the establishment of farmer producer organizations to enhance agricultural activities.
