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Guwahati – 781024 , 8860575759 / [email protected]
 1. Indian Railways to launch Bharat Gaurav train to North East for 15 days tour

The Bharat Gaurav train tour by Indian Railways will start from Delhi Safdarjung railway station
and will cover Guwahati, Sivasagar, Jorhat and Kaziranga in Assam, Unakoti, Agartala and
Udaipur in Tripura, Dimapur and Kohima in Nagaland and Shillong and Cherapunji in Meghalaya

The Indian Railways (IRCTC) has introduced the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train, which is set
to depart from the New Delhi Safdarjung railway station.

According to the official statement from the Ministry of Railway, the train will complete a North
East Circuit covering Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura and Meghalaya for 15 days.

The theme for the North East circuit is "North East Discovery: Beyond Guwahati".

The Indian Railways launched the Bharat Gaurav scheme in 2021 to provide a fillip to Indian
tourism and attract tourists from all over the world.

The Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train launch is in line with the Government of India initiatives "Ek
Bharat Shrestha Bharat" and "Dekho Apna Desh" to promote domestic tourism.

2. Garo Language Considered For Inclusion In Constitution’s 8th Schedule, Meghalaya CM

Confirms

In a recent development, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has agreed to consider the
inclusion of the Garo language in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

This decision comes after an advocacy campaign led by a team, including Meghalaya Chief
Minister Conrad Sangma, Lok Sabha MP Agatha K Sangma, Speaker Thomas A Sangma, and
Cabinet Minister Marcuise N Marak.

Initially, the Garo language was left out of the list of 38 languages being reviewed for possible
3 inclusion.

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 However, Agatha K Sangma and Hon’ble Speaker, Shri Thomas A Sangma led the delegation to
request the same from the MHA. Based on their request, the MHA has now agreed to include
Garo language in the list of languages demanding 8th schedule inclusion, as informed by Chief
Minister Conrad Sangma.

3. Assam Govt unveils roadmap to save state bird, white-winged duck

In a bid to conserve the endangered state bird of Assam, the White-winged duck, the
government has drafted a road-map for the species’ long-term conservation.

Unveiled by Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary recently, the strategy document outlines
action plans and frameworks to protect and conserve the bird – a symbol of Assam’s natural
heritage.

Developed in collaboration with WTI, the strategy document is expected to help ensure the
survival of this endangered species and its vital role in the region’s ecosystem.

Extending his best wishes to the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the Environment and Forest
Department, Patowary expressed hope that the action plan for the conservation of the “Deo
hanh” would successfully achieve its goals.

The White-winged duck, once widely found in the Northeast and Southeast Asia, was declared
“endangered” by the IUCN Red List due to its small and fragmented population – with
approximately 1000 mature individuals, according to BirdLife International’s 2016 assessment.

Currently, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh host around 450 birds, representing approximately
50% of the global population, making the region the last stronghold for this species.

Previously, efforts to conserve the White-winged duck have been made in Assam, with the
establishment of Dibru-Saikhowa National Park and Dihing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary.

However, despite these efforts, experts and birdwatchers observe a decline in their numbers.
The lack of updated information and a synchronised concerted effort across the species’ entire
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distribution range are among the key challenges in their conservation.

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 4. Bodo Sahitya Sabha observes 70th foundation day at Kokrajhar

The central committee of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS) observed its 70th foundation day at
Chandamari in Kokrajhar. Various district and primary committees also observed the day across
the State and outside in their respective places. As part of the programme, the president of the
BSS Taren Boro hoisted the organizational flag in Kokrajhar while vice president Ramela Islary
paid homage to martyrs of movement for Bodo language and literature.

Dr. Dinanath Basumatary, another vice president of the BSS also paid floral tribute to Bodo
national martyrs. The Chief of BTC Pramod Boro inaugurated the seminar and book releasing
ceremony on the topic, 'Significance of November 16 and growth and development of Bodo
literature". Chaired by Taren Boro, president of the BSS, Dr. Mangalsing Hazoary, Padma Shri
Award winner gave the keynote address while ABSU president Dipen Boro also attended the
inaugural function of seminar. Talking to mediapersons, the president of the BSS Taren Boro
said the BSS had been working for the growth and development of Bodo literature. Recalling
the foundation of BSS at Basugaon in the then undivided Kokrajhar district, Boro said the Bodo
literature had reached to university level as MIL. He said the BSS will work for the flourish of
Bodo language and literature as it wants equal respect and dignity for being included in 8th
schedule of Constitution of India.

5. Winged visitors give wetland a miss

The winter has set in as the harbinger of bad news for bird lovers in the state. Compared to last
year, the arrival of migratory birds at Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary, 15 km southwest of
Guwahati, has been abysmally low this winter.Disturbances caused by humans are affecting
ecology of the wetland. Deepor Beel is the only wetland in the state on the list of Ramsar sites.

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 6. Remembering Assamese litterateur Mamoni Raisom Goswami on her birth
anniversary

Indira Goswami also is known as Mamoni Raisom Goswami was a wonderfully talented
Assamese literateur who was born on November 14, 1942, in Amranga in South Kamrup,
Assam, in a family that was deeply associated with Sattra (monastery) life of the Ekasarana
Naam Dharma. Her father was Umakanta Goswami and her mother was Ambika Devi. She was
fondly referred to as Mamoni Baideo.

She received her primary education from Latashil primary school Guwahati and Pine Mount
school in Shillong and passed H.S.L.C in 1957. Later she completed her masters in Assamese
literature from Guwahati University in 1963 and her doctorate in 1973. At the age of sixteen,
her story 'Smritir Mukti' won the first prize at the Annual Story Writing Competition in 1957.
She was a great artist, poet, scholar, professor, and writer. She also is known for her attempt to
structure social change. Mamoni Raisom Goswami has been honoured with several awards,
including the Sahitya Akademi Award, Jnanpith, Padma Shri, Asom Ratna, Katrina National
Award, Prince Claus Award from the Netherlands, and honorary doctorate.

7. Former Assam / Nagaland / Tripura governor Padmanabha Acharya passes away

Former Governor of Nagaland and senior BJP leader Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya passed
away in Mumbai. He was 92 and leaves behind two children and his wife.

Acharya who hailed from Udupi in Karnataka, breathed his last at his Mumbai residence.The
BJP veteran had also worked with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Akhil Bharatiya
Vidyarthi Parishad.

Acharya had served as governor of Nagaland, Tripura, Assam and also handled the
responsibilities as the governor of Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.
In his condolence message, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said Acharya remained committed to
the organisation’s ideology.
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Governor, CM and others condole Nagaland governor La Ganesan and chief minister Neiphiu
Rio led others in condoling the demise of former governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya, who

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 passed away in Mumbai.

In a condolence message to Mrs. Kavita Acharya, governor La Ganesan said that the loss of a
loved one was always challenging, adding that the loss of former governor PB Acharya has left a
void in all.

Governor said late Acharya’s remarkable qualities as a genuinely warm, hospitable, generous
and down to earth person would always be remembered. Ganesan also said that late Acharya’s
compassionate nature and unwavering concern for the welfare of the staff of Raj Bhavan
Kohima would forever be cherished.

8. Bhutan King begins three-day visit to Assam, offers prayer at Kamakhya Temple

Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk began his maiden three-day tour to Assam with a
visit to the famed Kamakhya Temple atop the Nilachal Hills in Guwahati.

Earlier in the day, the 43-year-old King of the neighbouring Himalayan country arrived at the
Lokpriya Gopinath International Airport in Guwahati and was received by Chief Minister
Himanta Biswa Sarma, his Cabinet colleagues and State government officials.

Mr. Sarma welcomed the King with the traditional Assamese 'Gamosa' (hand towel). The royal
visitor greeted the Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues with folded hands.

From the airport, the King went to the Kamakhya Temple where he was received by priests,
Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah, senior officials of the State and the Kamrup
Metro district administration.

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 9. Hundreds take part in procession to highlight glory of Khasi faith

The beautiful state of Meghalaya, in the Northeast, is home to a rich tapestry of cultures and
traditions. One of the lively and colorful celebrations in Meghalaya is Seng Kut Snem, a festival
that marks the culmination of the year-long festivities of the Khasi community.

Farmers in Meghalaya believe this to be the time of offering new fruits since winter fruits ripe
during this time. The Khasi calendar follows the Almanac, which is based on the changing
seasons called Saw Samoi – winter, spring, summer, and autumn. These seasons affect when
crops are planted and harvested, depending on factors like weather, rain, and the phases of the
moon.

Celebrated annually on the 23rd of November, Seng Kut Snem, which literally translates to “the
annual year ending day of the Seng Khasi”. It is a two-day joyous affair that signifies the
beginning of the new harvest season. It also marks the anniversary for Seng Khasi followers of
the traditional Khasi faith known as Niam Khasi, who get together to express their reverence to
the divine.

10. Assam receives 9 Guinness World Records certificate in tree plantation

As part of the Amrit Brikshya Andolan drive, a total of 1,11,17,781 seedlings of commercially
valuable tree species were planted across the state on a single day.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma received the certificates from Guinness World
Records Adjudicator Swapnil Dangarikar for the state's 'Amrit Brikshya Andolan'.

The entire exercise was carried out in the 'Jan Bhagidaari' model through the involvement of
the Self-Help Groups, ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, educational institutions, police
personnel, tea garden workers, government officials and other citizens.

In the first category, that is in the Longest Line of Potted Saplings, record was made at
Veterinary College Field in Guwahati by Kamrup East Forest Division and 22.22 km long line of
8 3,22,444 poly potted saplings were arranged in a spiral form with lighting.

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 In the second category, that is in the Largest Number of Saplings Distributed at one venue in
24 hours, record was made when saplings arranged in the spiral form at the Veterinary College
Field were distributed. A total of 3,22,444 seedlings were distributed.

11. Assam launches PM Shri School Scheme to develop 264 schools

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the PM Shri School scheme to develop
264 schools, aligning with the New Education Policy (NEP).

Informing that these schools will have modern infrastructure, discovery-oriented teaching, and
leadership roles, Mr Sarma said that the state government has chosen these schools for
development, marking a significant milestone in Assam's education sector.

These schools will also impart a discovery-oriented way of teaching and provide leadership to
nearby schools in encapsulating the full spirit of NEP.

It is significant that PM Shri school is a centrally sponsored scheme intended to develop more
than 14,500 schools across the country and more than 20 lakh students are expected to be
direct beneficiaries of the scheme.

The scheme will be implemented over a period of five years beginning from 2022.

The chief minister made this announcement while presenting the Anundoram Barooah award,
comprising Rs 15,000 each, to 27,183 students who had passed the Class 10 examinations with
75 per cent and more marks.

He said that from next year this award will be converted to a scholarship to bring an
environment of competitiveness among our students.

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 12. Anundoram Borooah “Award” to be Replaced by “Scholarship” from Next Year

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma attended as Chief Guest the centrally-held
ceremonial distribution of Anundoram Borooah Award for 2023 organized at Srimanta
Sankardev Kalakshetra by the School Education Department of Government of Assam. A total of
27,183 students across the State who had secured a minimum of 75% or above in the High
School Leaving Certificate Examination 2023 have been awarded with a cash amount of Rs.
15,000 each by the Government of Assam through the Anundoram Borooah Award costing a
total of approximately Rs. 40.77 crores. The Chief Minister also launched PM SHRI, a Centrally
Sponsored Scheme, for the State. Under PM SHRI scheme for Assam, a total of Rs. 127.46
crores have been approved for the year 2023-24 that would be utilized for academic and
infrastructure strengthening of 264 schools across the State.

Speaking at the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Sarma said Anundoram Borooah Award was
launched in the year 2005 with the aim of inculcating a spirit of competitiveness among the
students of the State and familiarizing them with the skills needed for acquiring of knowledge
through the medium of modern technologies. Since its launch, a total of 4,13,400 students have
been managed to secure this award, Dr. Sarma added. The government had named the award
after Anundoram Borooah so that youths of the school-going youths of the State could become
familiar with the achievements of this great son of mother Assam and draw inspiration from
them. Chief Minister Dr. Sarma spoke at lengths about the inspiring life of AnundoramBorooah
and appealed to the students to work tirelessly towards fulfilling their dreams through
determination and hard-work, as was displayed by the first Assamese Indian Civil Service (ICS)
officer after whom the award is named.

13. 24th edition of Hornbill Festival 2023 kick start at Naga Heritage Village Kisama

Hundreds of tourists descended on the hilly village near Nagaland capital Kohima as the 10-day-
long annual musical extravaganza was thrown open. Nearly two lakh visitors, both from India
and abroad, are likely to witness this year's festival.

Inaugurating the festival, Nagaland Governor La Ganesan said Hornbill festival is a celebration
10 that not only showcases the rich Naga heritage, but also embodies the spirit of unity in
diversity. "The festival is an open invitation to the world, to immerse themselves in the Naga
hospitality and experience the rich culture and tradition."

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 CM Neiphiu Rio said Hornbill festival in the past had hosted dignitaries and cultural troupes
from many Asian countries such as Thailand, Japan, Myanmar, Korea and even Europe and
beyond.

All 17 Naga tribes have put up their Morungs (traditional huts) displaying their cultural mosaic
and also allowing the visitors to taste the traditional food and drinks. Many visitors have also
put up tents on the hills of Nagaland to enjoy the picturesque beauty of the state.

14. Lachit Divas 2023: Honoring the Legacy of a Heroic General

In the vibrant tapestry of India’s history, certain individuals stand out as paragons of valor and
leadership. One such luminary figure is Lachit Borphukan, the unsung hero of the Battle of
Saraighat.

Lachit Divas 2023, being celebrated to honor his indomitable spirit, serves as a poignant
reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals who defended the rich cultural heritage of our
nation.

15. North-East chess genius Mayank Chakraborty becomes the 2nd International Master

In the world of chess, 14-year-old Mayank Chakraborty from the Northeastern state of Assam
has carved a name for himself by becoming India’s second International Master.

He was awarded the title after he defeated FM Marc Jay Bacojo (PHI) in the tenth round
of World Youth U-18 Championships 2023 held in Montesilvano, Italy. This successful feat by
Mayank helped him cross the Elo threshold of 2400 thereby becoming an International Master.

Mayank’s achievement was announced by Chess Base India in a recent post on X, where they
congratulated him for his wonderful feat at the World Youth Championships 2023.

Mayank Chakraborty, born and brought up in Guwahati, Assam, is a student at the South Point
11
School in Barshapara. He is the second chess player from the North-East of India to be awarded
the prestigious International Master title.

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 Sahil Dey, who also hails from Assam was the first from the North-East India to be awarded the
International Master title. Sahil’s feat was a little tough one because the event in which he
achieved the title happened during the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021 at Budapest,
Hungary.

Mayank Chakraborty performed wonderfully well at the 2nd Maharashtra GM Open in Nagpur,
Maharashtra earlier this year that earned him his first IM-norm. Subsequently, a month later,
he secured his second IM-norm at Issykkul Open in Isyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan. His final IM-norm came
at the Qatar Masters held in June this year.

Mayank comes from a place where resources are limited but with his determination and
support from his parents and coaches have made him a tough boy against any opponent. His
coaches GM Saptarishi Roy Chowdhury and Swayams Mishra have been his strength, not only
teaching him about professional chess but also constantly guiding and motivating him to
achieve higher goals.

His parents and admirers say that Mayank is a boy having phenomenal talent who is likely to
become India’s next GM if he receives the right kind of support and training.

16. Assam girl Priyanka Rajkakati successfully completes voyage to Antarctica, flaunts
‘Awesome Assam’ poster

In a significant achievement for Assam, Priyanka Rajkakati, an aerospace engineer from

Dhemaji, completed her first journey to Antarctica. Based in France, Rajkakati has made her
state proud by successfully accomplishing this rare feat.

She shared images from her voyage on social media, promoting her home state while in the
Southern Hemisphere.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recognised Rajkakati’s accomplishment,

congratulating her on the micro-blogging site ‘X’ and acknowledging her contribution to the
pride of the state.
12

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