The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Guwahati, in association with NTPC Bongaigaon, organized a regional media conference ‘Vartalap’ today at NTPC Township, Salakati, Kokrajhar. Under the overarching theme of Viksit Bharat Ka Amrit Kaal: Seva, Sushasan, Garib Kalyan ke 11 Saal, the interaction aimed to enhance awareness on various flagship initiatives of the Government of India, particularly focusing on youth development, clean energy, community empowerment, and responsible journalism in informed governance.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries including Shri Joyanta Basumatary, Member of Parliament, Kokrajhar; Shri Wilson Hasda, Executive Member, Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC); Shri Arnab Maitra, Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon; Shri Debabrata Kar, General Manager (O&M), NTPC Bongaigaon; Ms. Pavni Gupta, Deputy Director, PIB Guwahati; and Shri K.M. Prashanth, General Manager (Corporate Communications), NTPC.
Prominent regional leaders and officials gathered at a significant developmental workshop organized by PIB Guwahati to discuss progress and future initiatives under the theme “Viksit Bharat ke Amrit Kaal – Seva, Sushasan aur Garib Kalyan ke 11 Saal.” The event featured inspiring addresses from key dignitaries emphasizing inclusive growth, youth empowerment, and responsible journalism.
Shri Wilson Hasda, Executive Member of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), highlighted the regional development vision, stating, “Our commitment under the theme of ‘Viksit Bharat ke Amrit Kaal’ is to transform Bodoland socio-economically through welfare schemes, youth empowerment, and sustainable agriculture. The media plays a crucial role in fostering peace and good governance.”
Member of Parliament from Kokrajhar, Shri Joyanta Basumatary, appreciated the efforts of PIB Guwahati in creating a platform for meaningful dialogue, adding, “Responsible journalism and sectoral progress at the grassroots level are vital for inclusive growth. The region’s development across sectors like power and water is shaping a better future.”
NTPC Bongaigaon’s Regional Executive, Shri Arnab Maitra, expressed pride in hosting the event, emphasizing NTPC’s commitment to sustainability: “This platform reaffirms our dedication to clean energy, community welfare, and greener development through CSR initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Yoga Awareness.”
During the panel discussion on “Empowering Amrit Peedhi & Youth Welfare,” Ranjan Baruah, Advisor of the SEED Mission, underscored the importance of peace and development, noting, “Over 30,000 youths have been trained through our skilling and entrepreneurship programs, laying the foundation for a self-reliant generation.”
Robert L. Guite, Regional Director of ESIC Northeast, stressed the need for increased awareness about social security schemes, saying, “Expanding healthcare infrastructure and raising awareness in the North East are crucial for protecting organized sector workers.”
Shri K.M. Prashanth, General Manager of NTPC Bongaigaon, highlighted energy sector contributions, stating, “Our sustained efforts in energy, education, and community development reflect NTPC’s commitment to inclusive growth in the region.”
Dr. P.L. Bharati of the Central Ayurveda Research Institute emphasized the importance of traditional medicine, saying, “Promoting Ayurveda and Indian medicine enriches healthcare and promotes holistic wellness rooted in our cultural heritage.”
Shri Ankur Lahoty, Deputy Head of RNU, DD Guwahati, introduced new communication platforms, stating, “The PB-SHABD portal and WAVES OTT platform are innovative tools to ensure responsible and effective dissemination of information to the public.”
Smt. Pavni Gupta, Deputy Director of PIB Guwahati, highlighted the role of responsible journalism, emphasizing, “In the age of misinformation, responsible journalism is vital to strengthen the relationship between the government and the media.”
The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and a friendly badminton match between journalists and government officials, fostering camaraderie and celebrating the spirit of collaboration.
