Sribhumi: The 77th Republic Day on Monday became special in Sribhumi with the organisation of an NEIR programme that focused on unity, social harmony, and the future of the region. The event drew wide participation from students, teachers, social workers, and cultural organisers, turning the national day into a platform for dialogue and hope.

The programme was attended by chief guest, senior journalist, writer, and social thinker Satu Roy. Also present were KRC Foundations Managing Trustee and CEO Biswadeep Gupta, cultural organiser Bhaskar, Silchar Press Club General Secretary Shankar Dey, KRC members Biswajit Biswas, convener Abhijit Dey, Asit Dutta, journalist Arup Roy, the headmistress of the host school, and other school authorities.

Speaking on the occasion, Satu Roy stressed the urgent need for such initiatives to unite the many communities living in the Barak Valley and adjoining areas. He called the NEIR rally a deeply humane step.

According to him, programmes like this can slowly bring revolutionary change in the region by breaking walls of mistrust and identity-based divisions. He praised the organisers for reaching out to students and common people and said unity is the only way forward.

Biswadeep Gupta, in his address, spoke in detail about the vision behind NEIR 2026. He said the NEIR journey started from Kolkata on January 4 and will conclude on February 4. The aim is to integrate and unite nearly 200 different communities living in this region.

He mentioned that the Barak Festival was held last year, and in Sribhumi this year, the programme continued for five days, showing strong public support. Gupta said the focus is not only on culture but also on job creation, climate change awareness, and giving the youth a clear direction.

“There is always conflict among us. We keep fighting over identity,” Gupta said. “At least we can unite and give a call for togetherness.

Elders should stop fighting and create space for the younger generation to get jobs. We must say no to identity politics.” He also highlighted that climate change is a key part of the NEIR campaign.

Nearly 400 students took part in the Sribhumi programme, which included awareness activities and an alpana competition. Gupta said the response from students made the organisers proud and hopeful.

Shankar Dey, General Secretary of the Silchar Press Club, said journalists have always raised their voice against injustice. He praised Gupta for his positive thinking and continuous efforts to develop the region.

Dey spoke about the discrimination faced by Bengalis in different places and said leaders like Gupta are working selflessly for the people. He added that Gupta is closely connected to almost every part of the region, rarely takes rest, and is always on the move. He wished the NEIR rally great success.

The event ended with the distribution of prizes among competition winners. Overall, the Sribhumi programme stood out as a strong call for unity, peace, and collective progress, perfectly reflecting the spirit of Republic Day.

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