But even as finishing touches were being applied to welcome the guests with the creation of the largest ever sporting infrastructure in the state covering state-of-the-art stadia and a village that would stage and house 32 sporting events and sportspersons, a particularly disquieting development came by way of a boycott call by the Ulfa.

While we were determined to go ahead notwithstanding the threat, and a pall of gloom descended on the swanky game venues and members of the 14 committees who shared the pains of arranging such a mega event.

But it was ordained that Assam was going to keep her tryst with destiny after all, and Ulfa, in deference to the powerful voice of our people and the wishes of the sporting community of Assam, called off the ban.

It was another happy day for us.

We are overwhelmed by the participation of all states.

The action packed days from tomorrow till February 18 will bring our ancient land to the centrestage and inspire our citizens to pursue higher ideals.

(The author, Assam’s industry and power minister, is chairman of the reception committee, 33rd National Games)