ABSU 57th Annual Convention Begins in Kokrajhar, Emphasis Will Be on Education, Youth Development, Cultural Identity and Voluntary Service for Bodo People

Mahesh Dhoundiyal - Delhi

The first day of the 57th Annual Convention of the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) began at Bodofa Phawatthar, Dotma, Kokrajhar with a series of inaugural ceremonies honouring prominent personalities and institutions. The event, scheduled to run from March 13 to 16, 2025, brought together policy makers, academicians and cultural leaders, setting the stage for discussions on academic empowerment, youth leadership and cultural preservation. The day began with the inauguration of the main entrance by Shri Jiron Basumatary, MLA, Gossaigaon LAC, marking the formal start of the convention. This was followed by the unveiling of the Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma Memorial Stage and Main Pandal by Shri Urkhao Gwara Brahma, Cabinet Minister, Assam, where discussions and cultural programmes are scheduled to take place. Shri Lawrence Isleri, RC Chairman and MLA from Kokrajhar East (ST) inaugurated the Bir Chilagang Basumatary Memorial Delegate Hall and Camp, which provides a dedicated space for discussions and student interaction.

Several key facilities were also inaugurated, including the Late Rudhir Shankar Basumatary Memorial Guest House, inaugurated by Shri Ukil Mushahari, EM, BTR, and Shahid Bagrangsu Mushahari Memorial Exhibition-cum-Book Fair, inaugurated by Shri Ranjit Basumatary, EM, BTR, which was attended by students, researchers and visitors keen to explore Bodo literature and history. Shri Jyetirindra Brahma, Chairman, TCLCC, 8-Dotma (ST) BTC Const inaugurated the Dotma Horticulture Show and Competition, which highlighted the agricultural contributions of the region.

Healthcare and sports also got prominence with the inauguration of Late Danaswarang Narzari Memorial Health Centre by Dr. Anil Kumar Mohilary, Sub-Divisional Medical & Health Officer (SDM&HO) Dotma, BPHC and Shahid Tublao Brahma Memorial Playground by Shri Jashmanik Brahma, DPO, Kokrajhar emphasizing the role of physical fitness in community development. Late Narada Choudhury Brahma Memorial Cultural Forum (Exhibition), inaugurated by Shri Raheendra Nath Brahma, recipient of Pratima Barua Pandey Award, provided a platform for vibrant cultural expressions through traditional music and dance performances.

The Education and Youth Conference saw in-depth discussions on academic excellence, institutional reforms and skill building. Scholars, stakeholders and professionals examined the impact of NEP 2020 on regional education, with a focus on aligning educational structures with industry needs, integrating technology in classrooms and strengthening vocational training opportunities.

ABSU President Dipen Boro, highlighting the need for continued efforts in education and leadership development, said, “Education must evolve with the changing needs of students and future demands. It is essential to create opportunities that equip the younger generation with the knowledge, skills and guidance required to succeed. This conference is a step towards transforming ideas into practical solutions that shape academic growth, innovation and career paths.”

The day also saw high-energy competitions, including the Jwahwlao Swambala Basumatari Volleyball Competition and the Shaheed Guide-Helena Kabaddi Competition, which saw enthusiastic participation. The Jangkhrittiyari Dengkhwgiri Dwikhrong Khungur Basumatari Denkhov Mu Se-Nvi-Tham Competition, inaugurated by eminent singer Mrs Sulekha Basumatari, was a celebration of cultural heritage.

The evening concluded with the lighting of lamps for peace and prosperity, symbolizing unity and progress. Shri Raviram Narzari, MLA West Kokrajhar inaugurated the Reception Committee Souvenir of the 57th Annual Conference “Dotma”, which proved to be an important milestone in the event. Musical performances by Gautam Brahma, Budang Bulob Brahma, Phukan Boro and Dr. Gwamthao Basumatari concluded the first day on a grand note, encompassing artistic traditions.

With a strong opening day, the conference will continue in the coming days with discussions on policy frameworks, employment strategies and sustainable regional progress.

For more information please contact:

Anuj Kumar Baruah

M: +91 9958372662

E: anujkumarboruah@gmail.com