Voice of oppressed

18/10/2025

North East Integration Rally pre-launch ceremony held in Shillong

Tourism minister Timothy D. Shira extends support, calls for regional unity, growth

Voice of oppressed,
Shillong, Oct 18: The pre-launch ceremony of the North East Integration Rally (NEIR) 2026 was held in Shillong on Friday evening, marking the beginning of a movement aimed at strengthening cultural and regional integration across the northeastern states.

The event, organised by the NEIR 2026 organising committee, witnessed enthusiastic participation from dignitaries, policymakers, and members of civil society who came together to celebrate the spirit of unity in the region.

Speaking at the ceremony, Meghalaya tourism minister Timothy D. Shira lauded the organisers for initiating such an ambitious and meaningful programme. “It is important for all of us to work together to bring prosperity and development to our region,” he said, commending the efforts of KRC Foundation founder Biswadeep Gupta for conceptualising and leading the initiative.

The minister highlighted the vast potential of the people of the Northeast, emphasising the need to nurture skills and channel collective energy toward progress. He also assured support from the Tourism Department for the upcoming rally, which is scheduled to be held in January 2026. “I hope many people from across the Northeast will participate and make this rally a grand success,” he added.

MLA and NEIR Patron A. L. Hek, who also addressed the gathering, wished the organisers success and underscored the importance of such movements in fostering mutual understanding and solidarity among the states of the region.

Other speakers included Joydeep Gupta, co-chairman of FICCI’s Assam State Council, Prof. (Dr.) Sukamal Deb, and Col. Shanti Singh (Retd), who shared their perspectives on regional cooperation, economic empowerment, and the role of youth in nation-building.

Delivering the keynote address, Biswadeep Gupta outlined the concept and vision of NEIR, along with its upcoming campaigns, cultural activities, and outreach programmes designed to promote unity and collaboration among the northeastern states.

The evening also featured a cultural segment that captured the essence of the movement. K. Bobin from Imphal performed the NEIR theme song, drawing applause from the audience and symbolising the emotional and cultural bonds that tie the region together.

Earlier in the day, the NEIR organising committee met Timothy D. Shira at the Meghalaya Secretariat to brief him about the initiative and its planned activities. During the meeting, the minister reiterated his appreciation for the effort, calling NEIR a “meaningful step toward building stronger bonds among the people of the Northeast.”

The North East Integration Rally, scheduled for January 2026, aims to serve as a unifying platform that celebrates shared heritage, promotes inter-state collaboration, and highlights the collective aspirations of the region.

16/10/2025

NEIR 2026 Pre-Launch Ceremony on Friday

VoO desk

Shillong, Oct 16: The stage is set for the Pre-Launch Ceremony of the North East Integration Rally (NEIR) 2026, scheduled to take place on October 17 (Friday) at Mebaai Resort, Umtrew, Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya. The event marks a significant step toward the upcoming rally that aims to strengthen cultural bonds and regional connectivity across the Northeast.

The ceremony will be graced by Timothy D Shira, Tourism Minister of Meghalaya, who will attend as the Chief Guest. The organisers have also extended special thanks to A.L. Hek, MLA of Meghalaya and Patron of NEIR 2026, for his consistent guidance and support in shaping the initiative.

Several MLAs and dignitaries from Meghalaya are expected to attend, along with members of the NEIR organising committee from Guwahati, Imphal, and other parts of the region. The gathering is expected to serve as a convergence of leaders, planners, and cultural representatives committed to strengthening inter-state ties and celebrating the shared identity of Northeast India.

As part of the lead-up to the event, the Organising Committee of NEIR 2026 recently met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in New Delhi. During the meeting, the delegation briefed him on the rally’s objectives and its roadmap for 2026, which envisions a major cultural and integration movement spanning multiple Northeastern states. The committee also formally invited the Union Minister to inaugurate the main rally in Kolkata, underlining the symbolic and practical significance of his participation in promoting connectivity and infrastructure-led growth in the region.

The delegation that met Gadkari comprised Biswadeep Gupta, Managing Trustee of KRC Foundation; A.L. Hek, MLA and Chairman of the Meghalaya State Government Programme Implementation and Monitoring Committee; Prof. (Dr.) Sukamal Deb, from Anant National University, Ahmedabad, and former Deputy CEO of KVIC, Ministry of MSME; and Dev Datta, Founder of Dev Datta Design and Creative Head of NEIR 2016.

Speaking after the meeting, members of the organising team expressed optimism that Nitin Gadkari’s encouragement would give the rally national visibility and momentum. They emphasised that NEIR 2026 is not just a symbolic event but a movement to celebrate the culture, unity, and aspirations of the people of the Northeast.

Through its journey, NEIR 2026 aims to highlight the region’s diversity, heritage, and potential while fostering collaboration among its eight states. The rally will also serve as a platform to promote tourism, cultural exchange, and regional development initiatives in partnership with government bodies, academic institutions, and local communities.

The pre-launch ceremony in Meghalaya is expected to set the tone for what promises to be one of the most significant regional events leading up to 2026 — an effort to bring together voices, cultures, and communities under one shared vision of integration and progress for the Northeast.

12/10/2025

HAMFEST India 2025 in Goa Marks 35th Edition with Global Participation

Hills live desk

Goa, Oct 12: The 35th edition of HAMFEST India 2025 concluded successfully in Goa on Sunday, drawing more than 700 delegates from across the country and abroad. The two-day national convention of amateur radio enthusiasts, organized by the Goa Radio Amateur Society (GRAS) in association with the Goa College of Engineering (GEC), celebrated the enduring spirit of India’s ham radio community since the country’s first HAMFEST held at Kuttikkanam, Kerala, in December 1991.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics & Communication, and Printing & Stationery, Government of Goa, as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Nitin V. Raiker, Director of Fire & Emergency Services, as Guest of Honour, and Group Captain and Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla (VU2TNI), who was the Special Guest of Honour. The event was hosted in the presence of Dr. M. S. Krupashankara, Principal, Goa College of Engineering, and Shri Sandesh Bhat (VU22DX), Convenor of HAMFEST India 2025.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from various states including North Eastern States like Assam, Tripura, with Karnataka leading the numbers with 165 delegates. HAMs from the Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society, AMSAT India, and the Upagrah Amateur Radio Club of ISRO also participated, adding an international flavour to the historic meet.

Over 40 technical sessions, including 8 live demonstrations, were conducted across four parallel tracks at GEC, covering topics from antenna design to satellite communication. In addition, 37 exhibitors showcased advanced amateur radio, antenna, and communication equipment.

A major highlight this year was the first-ever HAM ASOC examination conducted during a HAMFEST, with around 40 participants, including delegates, students, and faculty from GEC’s electronics and telecommunication departments.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who trained under AMSAT India and the ISRO-led Upagrah Amateur Radio Club, interacted with students of the GEC Astronomy Club and shared vivid experiences of life aboard the International Space Station (ISS), discussing microgravity challenges and communication techniques.

In his address, Nitin V. Raiker emphasized the role of amateur radio in disaster management and emergency communication, highlighting how local HAMs can collaborate with emergency services in Goa. Chief Guest Rohan Khaunte lauded GRAS’s efforts and assured government support for the development of HAM radio activities in the state. He expressed gratitude to Group Captain Shukla for his inspiring participation and contribution to the HAM community.

The event concluded with an award ceremony honouring senior HAMs, Elmers (mentors), lifetime achievers, and the Belgum Net controllers for their contributions to amateur radio operations in India.

08/10/2025

NFR officials visit Zubeen Garg’s residence to offer condolences

Maligaon, Oct 8:

Senior officials from the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) Headquarters, Maligaon, on behalf of General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, paid tribute to the late singer composer and cultural icon of Assam, Zubeen Garg, during a visit to his residence at Kahilipara, Guwahati on Wednesday .

The NFR officials visited Zubeen Garg’s residence in the evening and offered floral tributes to the departed artist. They extended heartfelt condolences to his family, grieving the untimely demise of the legendary musician who had made outstanding contributions to Assamese music and culture, as well as to the broader landscape of Indian music and cultural heritage.

During the visit, the officials met his wife, Smt. Garima Saikia Garg and spent some time with her expressing their sympathies and extending support to his family during this difficult time. On behalf of NFR, a memento was also presented to the family as a mark of respect and remembrance.

The passing of Zubeen Garg has left a profound void in the cultural landscape of Assam and the Northeast. His artistic legacy will continue to inspire generations through his timeless creations and dedication to the region’s musical and cultural heritage.

21/09/2025

NEIR Pays Tribute to Zubeen Garg, Calls Him a Voice of Unity for Northeast India

Silchar, Sept 21: The organising committee members of North East Integration Rally (NEIR) have expressed deep grief at the sudden demise of legendary singer Zubeen Garg, describing him as a cultural force who gave voice to the idea of unity in the region.

NEIR founder and CEO Biswadeep Gupta said the organising committee has decided to dedicate its upcoming events in Garg’s memory. “Zubeen was very vocal about the integration of Northeast India. With more than 38,000 songs in nearly 40 languages, his contribution to society and culture is enormous, and many may not even realise the scale of it,” Gupta said.

In a Facebook post, Gupta wrote, “Today God must be crying watching the tears on Earth,” while sharing one of Garg’s last songs, performed in Singapore. He also posted a tribute poem by Guwahati-based Gitanjali Goswami, a member of the NEIR 2026 team.

Professor (Dr) Sukamal Deb from Ahmedabad called Garg a true artist whose creativity, empathy, and large-heartedness embodied unity and humanity. “With his departure, a void is created. The loss is ours, especially in a time when fellow feeling has taken a back seat,” he wrote, adding that Garg’s songs reflected his deep love for humanity.

Meghalaya MLA and former minister Alexander Laloo Hek also condoled the loss. “The sudden demise of Zubeen Garg is a big loss to all the people of the Northeast, and Assam in particular. I convey my deepest condolences to his family, near and dear ones. It is also a great loss to the singers’ fraternity, music lovers, and his countless fans,” Hek said.

The NEIR has resolved to celebrate Garg’s contributions during its upcoming rally, describing him as not only a celebrated singer but also a unifying voice for the entire region.

20/09/2025

KSOA condoled the death of Zubeen Garg

20/09/2025

Karbi Anglong mourns the loss of cultural icon Zubeen Garg

Sushanta Roy

Diphu September 20: The Government of Assam has expressed profound grief over the passing of Zubeen Garg, one of the state’s most cherished cultural figures.

A celebrated singer, filmmaker, and composer, Garg’s contributions to music and the arts have left an enduring legacy on Assam’s cultural landscape, uniting generations and communities through his soulful voice and creative genius.

As a mark of respect, the Government of Assam has declared a three-day period of state mourning from September 20 (saturday) to September 22 (Monday), 2025. During this time, all official entertainment programs, ceremonial dinners, and celebratory functions will be suspended.

Additionally, all Seva Saptah programs involving ceremonial events or distribution of benefits have been postponed.

The people of Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts have joined the state in mourning, paying heartfelt tributes to Garg’s extraordinary legacy.

Memorial gatherings have been reported at various locations, including District Commissioner offices, Diphu, Bokajan, Kheroni Zero Point, Mailoo Bazar, Dayangmukh, and other public spaces across the state.

Zubeen Garg’s music and artistic contributions will continue to resonate, immortalizing him as a beacon of Assam’s cultural identity.

20/09/2025

This election is not tough for UPPL: Pramod Boro

Kokrajhar Sept 20

by Biswadeep Gupta

While speaking on the election campaign, Pramod Boro spoke to this correspondent on the upcoming elections of the Bodoland Territorial Council.

From the difficult situation for Bodoland, in the last five years, there has been a visible transformation from uncertainty to certainty. Unrest to rest, violence to peace, everywhere there is peace, echoed Pramod Boro, the chief of UPPL, who is going to face the people's mandate for the second time.

He asserted that peace and normalcy have returned, and no fear in Bodolabd now, which was prevalent earlier. We could remove all the fear from society for the people.

He highlighted the removal of trust deficit among people and that they could rebuild the society where twenty-six communities are living together, and co-exist.

Talking about governance, he said earlier, there was no effective governance system, and people were deprived. He asserts that now the governance has taken a pro-people stand, and people have more expectations from the system.

Highlighting the policy vacuum of earlier governments, but his government could implement policies on the ground effectively.

On his relationship with the Central Government, Pramod Boro stated that the Council is an intermediary and the Bodoland region has been fighting for decades for their rights, and now his government has a working relationship with both the state and central government for implementing the Bodo Accord.

He highlighted that the goal is to develop the thirty-five lakh people of the region and the twenty-six communities residing here. His party's only focus is on the infrastructure development of the region and the people, he said.

On the development of twenty-six communities in the region, Boro stated that this is very important for guaranteeing the rights of the people as per the Constitution.

Despite the guarantees the discrimination exists, and in the last four years, the UPPL government studied the deficiencies and could come out with a 'Vision Document', which is a 'Model' for the region.

On work still to accomplish, Pramod Boro echoed social development and gaps amongst the people are to be filled, and he will continue to work on that mission, irrespective of the outcome of the election results.

He finally said that he has got the love and affection of people, which he believes his party will get the support of all twenty-six communities in order to build a better Bodoland.

18/09/2025

NFR takes up eco-friendly drive under Swachhata Hi Seva 2025

Voice of oppressed desk

Maligaon, Sept 18:

Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has launched the Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 campaign across all its divisions and headquarter from 17th September 2025. The campaign will continue till 02nd October, 2025, and will be observed in all stations, trains, workshops, colonies, offices and other railway establishments with the aim of promoting cleanliness, sustainability and public awareness. On this occasion, General Manager of NFR Chetan Kumar Shrivastava led the officers and staff in taking the Swachhata Pledge, reaffirming NFR’s commitment to building a cleaner and greener environment.
Throughout the campaign period, NFR will be organizing a wide range of activities under the theme Swachhotsav. These include intensive cleanliness drives in station premises, tracks, colonies and offices awareness campaigns for passengers and local communities, workshops for railway staff and special initiatives to eliminate unserviceable materials. The focus of the campaign is on the “3R” principle reduce, reuse and recycle to foster a culture of environmental responsibility.
Senior officials and staff from headquarter and across divisions will be actively participating in activities, involving passengers and members of the public to ensure collective ownership of cleanliness efforts. Interactive sessions, cleanliness pledges and awareness messages were delivered to highlight the importance of hygiene and sanitation. NFR is making every effort to engage both employees and citizens in this mass movement, recognizing that sustainable cleanliness requires consistent participation from all sections of society.
As a special eco-friendly measure on the opening day of the campaign, NFR introduced compostable bags manufactured by IIT Guwahati for the distribution of bedrolls in all originating trains. This innovative step reflects NFR’s commitment to reducing single-use plastics, promoting sustainable practices, and aligning railway services with the national mission of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. By blending such eco-friendly innovation with mass participation, NFR aims to set new benchmarks in sustainable railway practices.

18/09/2025

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18/09/2025

Governor visits 'Seneh' an old age home for destitute

Voice of oppressed

Guwahati, Sept 18: On the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya paid a visit to the “Seneh” an Old Age Home for destitute elderly women in Guwahati yesterday.
During his visit, the Governor spent joyful moments with the residents, sharing the warmth and affection synchronizing with the spirit of the day. The occasion was made even more meaningful as the elderly mothers of the home offered their sincere blessings to the Prime Minister for his long life and good health.
On the occasion, they also prayed for the success of Narendra Modi’s mission for a developed and prosperous India. The Governor’s visit symbolized a beautiful blend of respect, compassion, and hope, honoring the special needs of the residents of the old age home.

05/05/2025

NFR extends periodicity of special trains
Services of special trains in DHR also extended
Timings of few other trains also revised

Maligaon, May 5:

To accommodate the increased passenger demand, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has extended the periodicity of three pairs of special trains: Train No. 09623/09624 (Udaipur City – Forbesganj – Udaipur City), Train No. 01405/01406 (Kolhapur – Katihar – Kolhapur) and Train No. 09189/09190 (Mumbai Central – Katihar – Mumbai Central). In addition, NFR has revised the timings and increased the speed of some trains to improve operational efficiency. Effective from 11th May 2025, the timings of Train No. 15417/15418 (Alipurduar Jn – Silghat Town – Alipurduar Jn) Rajya Rani Express and Train No. 55465 (Alipurduar Jn – Bamanhat) Passenger have been revised. These revisions are expected to enhance mobility, reduce journey times and improve passenger convenience.

Accordingly, train No. 09623 (Udaipur City – Forbesganj) will run on every Tuesday with extended services for more four trips w.e.f. 06th May, 2025 and train No. 09624 (Forbesganj – Udaipur City) will run on every Thursday with extended services for more four trips w.e.f. 08th May, 2025. Train No. 01405 (Kolhapur - Katihar) will run on every Sunday with extended services for more four trips w.e.f. 04th May, 2025 and train No. 01406 (Katihar - Kolhapur) will run on every Tuesday with extended services for more four trips w.e.f. 06th May, 2025. Train no. 09189 (Mumbai Central - Katihar) will run on every Saturday with extended services for more five trips w.e.f. 03rd May, 2025 and train No. 09190 (Katihar – Mumbai Central) will run on every Tuesday with extended services for more five trips w.e.f. 06th May, 2025.These trains will continue to operate with the existing schedule, route, coach composition, stoppages and days of service.

Furthermore, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) has extended the operation of five Special Diesel Joyride trains to accommodate the maximum number of tourists during the peak season.Train No. 02546 (Darjeeling–Ghum–Darjeeling) Special Diesel Joyride, will now continue to operate till 15th July, 2025 commencing its extended service from 1st May, 2025. Additionally, the services of Train Nos. 02547, 02548, 02549 and 02550 (Darjeeling–Ghum–Darjeeling) Special Diesel Joyrides have also been extended and will continue the extended services from 1st to 15th July, 2025.

With revised timings effective from 11th May, 2025, train No. 15417 (Alipurduar Jn – Silghat Town) Rajya Rani Express will depart from Alipurduar Jn. at 18:45 hours to reach Silghat Town at 08:55 hours the next day. In return direction, train No. 15418 (Silghat Town - Alipurduar Jn.) Rajya Rani Express will depart from Silghat Town on 18:00 hours to reach Alipurduar Jn. at 07:35 hours the next day w.e.f. 12.05.2025. With revised timings effective from 11th May, 2025, Train No. 55465 (Alipurduar Jn. – Bamanhat) Passenger will depart from Alipurduar Jn. at 06:10 hours to reach Bamanhat at 08:35 hours on same day.

The details of routes, stoppages and timings of these trains are available at IRCTC website and social media platforms of N. F. Railway. Passengers are requested to verify the details before undertaking their train journeys.