Sarbananda Sonowal Addresses Motok Foundation Day in Dibrugarh
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the Motok community has played an important role in shaping the social, cultural and national character of the Assamese people. He called for strengthening collective efforts to build a self-reliant Assam through discipline, determination and youth empowerment. Sonowal was speaking at the 86th Central Foundation Day of the Sadou Asom Motok Sanmilan at Bokpara Public Auditorium in Dibrugarh.
Call for Discipline and Value-Based Progress
Addressing the gathering, the Dibrugarh LSC MP said the community’s resilience and organisational discipline have contributed to the progress of Assamese society. He stated that the Motok community is known for discipline, commitment and resilience and added that its members have demonstrated unity and responsibility over time.
Sonowal highlighted the need to combine scientific progress with cultural and moral values. He said development must remain rooted in humanity and noted the importance of adopting technology without disconnecting from ancestral heritage and values. The Union Minister said human values are essential to maintaining social and spiritual relationships.
Youth Empowerment and Self-Reliance
Encouraging youth leadership across sectors, Sonowal urged young members of the Motok community to pursue excellence in education, agriculture, science and technology, sports and culture. He said that with courage, morale, focus and determination, the Assamese nation can rise to global excellence. Sonowal said that a self-reliant Motok society will build a self-reliant Assam, which in turn will strengthen the foundation of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
He remembered Guru Aniruddhadeva and said his teachings form the moral foundation of discipline and social reform that continue to guide the community. Sonowal said the community must be empowered towards self-reliance, inspired by the ideals of Guru Aniruddhadeva.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The programme was attended by several dignitaries, including educationist Chandra Senapati, Axom Sahitya Sabha President Sashangk Neog, memoir release guest Manoj Gohain, Sadou Asom Motok Sanmilan General Secretary Kiron Rajkhowa, ATDC Chairman Rituparna Boruah, Assam State Housing Board Chairman Puluk Gohain and DRDA Chairman Aseem Hazarika.
Sonowal Unveils ‘Jyotishnata’ at Nandalal Borgohain City College
Earlier in the day, Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the memoir Jyotishnata at Nandalal Borgohain City College. The book commemorates the life and contributions of academician Jyoti Borgohain. The event was attended by Principal Dr. Sanjibananda Borgohain, Vice-Chairperson Manasi Borgohain, Dibrugarh Mayor Saikat Patra, Deputy Mayor Ujjal Phukan and other dignitaries.
Sonowal said the memoir reflects Borgohain’s journey in educational, intellectual and social service spheres and expressed hope that readers would receive it warmly. He said the documentation of her journey was accomplished with sincerity.
Message on Perseverance and Patriotism
Invoking the spirit of Lachit Divas, Sonowal encouraged students to adopt perseverance and patriotism as core values for success. He said there is no shortcut to success and emphasised patience, determination and hard work, quoting Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Referring to Assam’s legendary warrior, he urged the youth to draw inspiration from Lachit Borphukan in the collective mission of nation-building.
Upcoming Maritime Skill Development Centre
The Union Minister announced that a new Centre of Excellence for maritime skill development is upcoming in Dibrugarh. He said the centre will train 5,000 youth annually and provide certification aimed at improving employment opportunities.
Tribute to Nandalal Borgohain
Sonowal paid tribute to late social reformer Nandalal Borgohain, describing him as a symbol of humanity and community service. He appealed to students to uphold humility and social responsibility.
The Minister concluded the programme by interacting with students and assuring institutional support for educational and skill-building initiatives.