North-East Now Centre Stage in Our National Story: VP Dhankhar

GG News Bureau
Guwahati, 28th Oct. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, addressing the 21st International Conclave of the Krishnaguru International Spiritual Youth Society, celebrated the North-East’s emergence as a key contributor to India’s national story, crediting the region’s rise to the government’s focus on “Purvodaya,” or the rise of the East. The Vice President acknowledged the progress in connectivity and development across the region, previously marked by underdevelopment but now seen as a gateway to broader South-East Asian engagement.

Describing spirituality as central to the nation’s advancement, Dhankhar emphasized values of love, compassion, and community responsibility as core to India’s cultural identity. He urged the youth to prioritize spirituality, alongside nationalism, modernity, and technological growth, as a transformative mechanism for India, stating, “When these elements combine, Bharat’s journey to becoming a ‘Vishwaguru’ will rest on your shoulders.”

Dhankhar praised Krishnaguruji’s teachings for their focus on selflessness and national unity. “Krishnaguruji’s message of love, service, and humanity,” he said, “enlightens the hearts of his devotees,” inspiring an approach where personal goals align with community and national welfare.

He also touched on India’s rich history of resilience, highlighting how spiritual centers have consistently supported communities during crises. Referring to India’s sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita and Ramayana, Dhankhar emphasized the importance of selfless action, which has shaped the nation’s compassionate response in times of calamity.

Reflecting on India’s evolving Look East-Act East policy, Dhankhar emphasized the North-East’s strategic role, saying, “This policy has transformed the North-East into a place of opportunity, drawing strength from its proximity to South-East Asia.” He acknowledged the policy’s role in enhancing economic and strategic relations, positioning the North-East as a vital bridge to neighboring countries.

The Vice President also celebrated recent cultural achievements, including the recognition of Assamese as a classical language, a milestone that honors Assam’s unique heritage. He noted, “This region’s pristine beauty fosters an atmosphere of peace and spiritual exploration, drawing attention to its cultural richness.”

Concluding with government investment figures, Dhankhar underscored the tangible transformation underway, citing the central government’s ₹3.37 lakh crore commitment to roads, railways, and airports across the North-East over the past decade. His speech reaffirmed the North-East’s integral role in India’s narrative of growth, resilience, and unity, calling for continued celebration of its distinct identity.

Among those present were Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, and dignitaries from Krishnaguru International Spiritual Youth Society, underscoring the high-level support for the region’s promising future.