Guwahati: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday underscored the Assam government’s focus on skill development and livelihood generation in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), projecting the initiative as both an economic intervention and a step towards political stability.
Sharing details on X, Sarma said the government has introduced 15 new trades across 22 upgraded training centres in the region.
In the past four years, 20,097 youth have received training across sectors, against a target of 50,000.
“Bodoland is accelerating trade, with training and transformation,” he wrote.
The chief minister added that 4,680 individuals have been certified under the Recognition of Prior Learning programme in fields such as electrical work, plumbing, masonry and farming.
Another 1,723 people have undergone specialised training in piggery, goat and sheep rearing, and fish seed cultivation across BTR’s five districts.
Placement-linked training in tailoring, floriculture and food services has benefitted over 1,800 youth, while 75 candidates have been skilled in heavy vehicle driving, JCB operation and mechanical trades.
Observers note that Sarma’s renewed emphasis on Bodoland comes days before the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections scheduled for September 22.
The BJP, which governs the BTC in alliance with the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL), is seeking to consolidate its position in a region where employment and economic self-reliance remain pressing issues.
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Sarma has repeatedly framed the government’s approach as “peace with progress”.
“The youth of Bodoland are not just beneficiaries of government schemes, they are partners in building a new future. By equipping them with modern skills, we are opening pathways for prosperity and stability,” he said in recent interactions.
With the polls approaching, the messaging combines development figures with political signalling, casting the BJP-led government as capable of delivering both opportunity and lasting stability in a region historically scarred by unrest and underdevelopment.
