HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, Jan 18: In a significant move towards sustainable urban development, the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government has officially joined hands with the renowned World Resources Institute (WRI). The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Akash Deep, the principal secretary of BTC, and Madhav Pai, CEO of WRI, during an event held at the Central Institute of Technology (CIT) in Kokrajhar on Wednesday.
The ceremony, attended by key figures such as CEM Pramod Boro, aimed to underscore BTR’s commitment to developing its cities in an environmentally conscious manner. The region places a strong emphasis on sustainability, considering the impact on land, water, air, climate, and other natural elements.
WRI, globally recognised for its work in sustainable urban development, brings valuable expertise to the collaboration. Madhav Pai, the CEO of WRI, is acknowledged as a leading thinker and practitioner in the realms of urbanisation, climate, and the environment.
Among the dignitaries present were BTR EM Wilson Hasda, social activist Raju Kumar Narzary, and the chairpersons of Municipal Corporations in the Bodoland region. CEM Boro highlighted the ongoing efforts within BTR to align development with nature and sustainability, expressing optimism about transforming villages into self-sufficient urban areas.
Describing BTR as the gateway to the north-east, Pramod Bodo aims to create impactful changes that set an example for the entire region through this collaboration. Principal secretary BTC, Akash Deep, believes that the MoU will aid in efficient planning and fund utilisation for the administration.
Madhav Pai, CEO of WRI, expressed eagerness to commence sincere groundwork in the BTR region, foreseeing new opportunities for ideas and implementation.
As part of the event, CEM Pramod Boro launched a book marking the completion of the 100 Days and 150 Targets Development Programme. The book serves as a testament to BTR’s commitment and capacity to undertake and successfully execute development missions.
The event also featured a brief dialogue between Madhav Pai and the present Municipality chairpersons of BTR districts, stimulating anticipation for more collaborative initiatives in the future.