In Assam, despite a general strike call given by some underground outfits, the 64th Independence Day has been celebrated across the State with befitting colourful programmes. The functions were held amidst tight security. Defying the militants boycott call large numbers of citizens came out to participate in the Independence Day functions across the State.
The State Revenue Minister, Dr.Bhumidhar Barman unfurled the national tricolour and took salute of an impressive march past by school children and uniformed forces at the State-level main function held at Latashil Field in Guwahati this morning. Dr. Barman is looking after the administration of the State in absence of the Chief Minister Mr. Tarun Gogoi following his heart by-pass operation.

In his speech, Dr. Barman appealed to the militant outfits to shun violence and come forward for negotiating table to ensure peace and progress of the State. He said it is a good sign that some underground groups including hardcore ULFA and NDFB have come over ground by laying down their arms to sit for peace talks. He said the Government is preparing modalities to hold talks with such groups. Highlighting achievements in different spheres, Dr. Barman said the State Government has given utmost stress in up gradation of infrastructure for providing quality and job-oriented education to the youths. He said the state government has increased the allocation in agriculture sector to 803 crore rupees in the current fiscal to ensure targeted food output. He also announced providing of 10 kilogrammes of rice to around 13 lakh families below the poverty line in the State.