Guwahati: Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Wednesday said his government will take up comprehensive measures to turn Sivasagar district into an important tourist destination.
Sonowal announced this while taking part in an open session of the first International Shiva Festival, organised by the Shiva Doul Development Board, on Wednesday.
Jorhat MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, MLAs Prasanta Phukan, Kushal Dowari, Tapan Gogoi, Jogen Mohan, Sivasagar deputy commissioner Narayan Konwar, Charaideo deputy commissioner Bibekananda Phukan and a host of other dignitaries attended the session.
"Sivasagar has a rich heritage which glorifies Assam's identity. The district has all the potential to grow as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations. We need to spread its potential across the world," Sonowal said, adding that a new tourism policy has been adopted by Dispur which would open new opportunities of investment in this sector.
Tasa said the government has already sanctioned Rs 27 crore for the development of tourism in the district. "Another proposal of sanctioning Rs 34 crore has been submitted to the ONGC for this purpose," he said.
The chief minister highlighted the quality of construction of the Ahom-regime monuments.
The structures bear the testimony of quality construction, dedication and honesty of builders, Sonowal added.
He called upon the people to reflect these attributes in their performance and urged them to maintain harmony and brotherhood among all communities.
"Sivasagar is a confluence of different communities and cultures. In spite of its diversity, this place is an example of peaceful and harmonious coexistence. Our strength lies in our unity and we will have to further strengthen it," Sonowal said.
The inaugural ceremony took place on Tuesday inside the Shiva Doul (temple) complex under Konwar's presidentship.
Various international artistes have been invited to participate in the festival. Several adventure sports such as para-motoring and river rafting have been organised. Tents have been erected at Pohu Garh.
The Sivasagar district administration has declared Thursday a holiday. The four-day festival will end on Friday.
Additional reporting by Kongkon Bora in Sivasagar
