HT Correspondent
JORHAT, Sept 8: The Assam Agricultural University will publish a well-researched book on the tribal heroes of Assam who contributed to the freedom struggle of India.In a meeting, held at the IDA conference hall of the Assam Agricultural University, after the inauguration of a photo exhibition of ‘Tribal Heroes in India’s Freedom Struggle’, AAU vice chancellor Dr Bidyut Chandan Deka said that the objective of the book would be to highlight the contribution of the tribal heroes to the masses and thereby instil in them a sense of nationalism and patriotism.
The exhibition held in the Horticulture department’s gallery was jointly organised by AAU and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, New Delhi.
The VC further said that while many freedom fighters were well known, there were several who resided in remote areas and little was known about these indigenous freedom fighters.
“It is our duty and responsibility to take them out, highlight their contributions and let others also know about them. There are many other small achievements of the tribal population in the state which also needs to be highlighted,” he said.Dr Deka said that it was also important to preserve and promote one’s own indigenous culture so that it is handed down to the next generations and other people also become aware of our rich cultural heritage.
Addressing the meeting, joint director of the National Commission of Scheduled Tribes, Konthang Touthang said, “The Constitution enshrined and protected the rights of the tribals and the commission was working to uplift their economic status.”
Head of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Karbi Anglong, Dr Subol Maibongsai delivered a speech on the contributions of tribals to the freedom struggle.
Kalyan Ashram, Assam joint secretary Nitya Ranjan Doley and Lumding College Political Science department assistant professor Bandita Teronpi also gave audio-visual presentations on the subject.