Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya visits Patkijuli, distributes certificates to women and flags off Bharat Darshan tour for students.

Dalim Phukan.
HILLS LIVE NEWS, Guwahati, October 10: Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Saturday visited Patkijuli village along the India–Bhutan border in Tamulpur district and emphasised the importance of developing border villages through women’s empowerment, youth development and rural self-reliance.
The Governor said that the vision of Viksit Bharat could be realised only when border villages emerged as centres of inclusive development, economic self-reliance and social harmony. He called for collective efforts to strengthen rural livelihoods, empower women and create greater opportunities for young people.
Acharya attended a programme organised by the 64th Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Patkijuli High School under the Namo Matribhoomi Suraksha avam Swavalamban Sankalp Saptah. The initiative was organised by Lok Bhavan, Assam, in association with the SSB under the Vibrant Villages Programme, focusing on public welfare, healthcare awareness, women’s empowerment and educational advancement in border areas.
Interacting with local residents, students and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the Governor observed that empowered villages and confident citizens were essential to building a strong and self-reliant India. He also appreciated the dedication of SSB personnel deployed along the international border and acknowledged their contribution to national security and the welfare of border communities.
Extending his greetings to the people of Tamulpur on the eve of Navratri, Acharya highlighted the district’s rich ethnic traditions, tribal heritage and cultural diversity. He said the harmonious coexistence of different communities reflected the spirit of Indian civilisation and demonstrated how unity in diversity strengthened the nation’s social fabric.
Emphasising the importance of individual responsibility in nation-building, the Governor urged citizens to work with honesty, discipline and dedication. He said meaningful national service began with contributing to village development, supporting fellow citizens and working sincerely for the welfare of society. Reiterating the spirit of Nation First, he called upon people to contribute actively to the country’s progress.
The Governor also highlighted the significance of the Vibrant Villages Programme in improving living standards, generating livelihood opportunities and promoting inclusive growth in border areas. He noted that villages along international borders formed an integral part of India’s social, cultural and national life, and their development was essential for strengthening communities at the grassroots.
Women’s empowerment stressed
Underscoring the role of women in rural development, Acharya appreciated the contribution of SHGs in promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening livelihoods and supporting the rural economy.
During the programme, he distributed certificates to women from border areas who had successfully completed beautician training conducted by the 64th Battalion of the SSB at the Border Out Post (BOP), Patkijuli. He encouraged the trainees to use their newly acquired skills to pursue self-employment, achieve financial independence and contribute to the prosperity of their families and communities.
Bharat Darshan tour for border-area students
Highlighting the importance of education and exposure for young people, the Governor urged students to dream big, pursue their studies with dedication, embrace emerging technologies and cultivate discipline and hard work. He stressed that girls should have equal opportunities to access education, develop their capabilities and fulfil their aspirations.
As part of its youth outreach initiative, the SSB organised a Bharat Darshan tour for boys and girls from border areas. The Governor flagged off the student contingent for a visit to Kolkata from October 10 to 15, 2026. The tour is intended to broaden the students’ horizons, familiarise them with India’s cultural diversity and strengthen their sense of national integration.
The programme also featured a Medical Civic Action Programme and a Millets Mela organised by the SSB to promote healthcare awareness, community well-being and knowledge of nutritious food. An oath under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was also administered to encourage a drug-free society.
Minister Biswajit Daimary delivered the welcome address.
Following the programme at Patkijuli, the Governor visited BOP Darranga, where he interacted with SSB personnel and shared Barakhana with them.
MLA Victor Das, Bodoland Territorial Council Executive Members Ganesh Kachari and Lakhi Das, SSB Inspector General Sudhir Verma, SSB Deputy Inspector Generals Manoj Kumar of Rangia and Neeraj Chand, 64th Battalion SSB Commandant Anuj Kumar, Tamulpur District Commissioner Simi Karan, Tamulpur Senior Superintendent of Police Suman Chakraborty, SSB officers and personnel, students and teachers of Patkijuli High School, and other dignitaries and local residents attended the programme.