'Like Brahmaputra, stream of development flowing uninterruptedly under double-engine govt': PM Modi in Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma upon his arrival in Guwahati, Assam. (PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the new terminal building of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati, saying Assam is witnessing an uninterrupted flow of development under the BJP’s double-engine government, much like the steady course of the Brahmaputra river.

Addressing a public gathering, Modi said modern and world-class airport infrastructure opens up fresh possibilities for any state, acting as a pillar of self-confidence and public trust. He described the inauguration as a celebration not just for Assam but for the entire Northeast.

“Today is a day of celebration of development. It is a celebration of the development of the entire Northeast, not just Assam. The whole country will see that Assam is celebrating the festival of development,” he said.

The Prime Minister spoke about his personal connection with the state, saying the affection of the people of Assam, especially women from the region, continues to inspire him and strengthens the government’s resolve to accelerate development in the Northeast. He added that the new terminal marks another important chapter in Assam’s growth story.

Modi said the design of the airport reflects a blend of development and heritage, with a strong focus on Assam’s culture, nature and greenery. He said travellers arriving at the terminal would experience a sense of calm and comfort, with the space showcasing the state’s identity.

Reiterating his development pitch, the Prime Minister said, “Just as the Brahmaputra flows continuously in Assam, the stream of development is also flowing uninterruptedly here under the BJP’s double-engine government.”

He also highlighted the government’s push for bamboo promotion, recalling that before 2014, bamboo was legally classified as a tree, restricting its use. “We changed that law and gave bamboo its rightful recognition by placing it in the grass category,” Modi said.

Modi said India is steadily moving towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy, with modern infrastructure playing a key role over the past 11 years. He added that as the country works towards the vision of a developed India by 2047, every state and region will have an important role to play.