HT Correspondent
DIBRUGARH, Jan 6: Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, accompanied by his wife, paid a visit to the iconic Jagannath Temple in Khanikar, Dibrugarh on Monday.
The Governor offered prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the people of Assam during his first visit to the temple.
Admiring the templeâs magnificent architecture and peaceful surroundings, the Governor called it a spiritually enriching experience.
Prominent dignitaries, including Dibrugarh district commissioner Bikram Kairi, superintendent of police Rakesh Reddy, and former Union minister Pawan Singh Ghatowar, were present at the event.
Temple trust members, staff, and a large number of devotees also gathered to witness the occasion.
Vijay Khemani, secretary of the temple trust, extended a warm welcome to the Governor and reflected on the contributions of former Governor Janaki Ballabh Patnaik in establishing the temple.
In his address, the Governor expressed his desire to visit the temple regularly and pledged his support for its further development.
The Governor and his wife were felicitated by Vijay Khemani, Pawan Singh Ghatowar, Ram Sasoni, Dip Chasa, Atmaram Agarwal, Purno Bordoloi, Sunita Khemani, Mausami Bagchi, Vivek Singh, and Pankaj Sobor as a mark of respect.
Acharya further held a review meeting with the district Commissioner and all the departmental heads of Dibrugarh district today, in the presence of minister of cultural affairs Bimal Bora and minister of power Prashanta Phukan.
During the meeting, district commissioner Bikram Kairi gave an overview of the various Central and State Government schemes being implemented in the district. The Governor took stock of the progress of several key departments, including panchayat and rural development (P&RD), health and family welfare, social welfare, fisheries, and horticulture.
The Governor asked the district officials to prioritize tree plantation efforts, stating that such initiatives should be integrated with Amrit Sarovars to Anganwadi Centres.
He asked the DC to place more importance in plantation of saplings as they are crucial for enhancing green cover and protecting the environment.
Acharya also underscored the importance of tuberculosis (TB) eradication. He, therefore, asked the concerned officials to inspire the local population to become Nikshay Mitras, thus contributing to the national campaign against TB.
The Governor said that the initiative would play a vital role in achieving the goal of a TB-free Assam.
During the meeting the Governor touched upon the potential of Amrit Sarovars as both an ecological and economic asset.
He noted that the water bodies created under Amrit Sarovar programme can foster employment opportunities and enhance the green cover in the region. He suggested that fisheries activities should be integrated into Amrit Sarovars, which would significantly improve the livelihood of villagers. He further pointed out that Assam, blessed with abundant water bodies, has the potential to emerge as a fish-surplus state in the country.
Acharya also took stock of the works of the Model Anganwadi Centres in the district. He urged the officials to expedite the completion of the remaining centres, emphasizing the need for timely completion to serve the community efficiently.
The Governor also asked the DC to identify and rectify any gaps in the implementation of welfare schemes and address them. He asked all officials to remain vigilant and ensure that no loopholes remain in the execution of government initiatives which are aimed at public welfare.