Barpeta: The legacy of Tarun Ram Phukan, one of Assam’s most revered freedom fighters, was commemorated in Barpeta on Sunday as part of Desh Bhakti Diwas 2025, an occasion marked annually by the Assam Government since 2021 to honour his contributions to India’s independence movement.
The district-level event, organised by the Barpeta District Administration in collaboration with the Office of the DIPRO, was held to pay tribute on Phukan’s death anniversary.
The programme was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner Jayanta Bora, ACS, and featured eminent litterateur Akshay Kumar Mishra—recipient of the Kalaguru and Siksharatna awards—as the chief guest.
The observance drew participation from students, teachers, government officials, and members of the public.
In his keynote address, Mishra reflected on the evolution of nationalism in Assam and India, underscoring Tarun Ram Phukan’s pivotal role as a leader, reformer, and patriot.
“Assam, the land of Lachit Borphukan, has always stood as a bastion of courage and patriotism,” he said, adding that true patriotism is reflected not just on the battlefield but also in everyday civic engagement and responsibility.
ADC Jayanta Bora praised the state government’s initiative to institute Desh Bhakti Diwas and urged young citizens to draw inspiration from Phukan’s life and ideals.
“Let this day serve as both remembrance and a call to action—a chance to reaffirm our commitment to the values Tarun Ram Phukan upheld,” he said.
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District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO) Rana Pratap Saikia also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of remembering historic figures like Phukan and integrating the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism into daily life.
He said such observances are crucial in keeping the memory of the freedom struggle alive for future generations.
The event concluded with floral tributes and cultural performances that celebrated the ideals of freedom, courage, and civic duty.
