Letter from the Editor-In-Chief

As we enter into the 68th year of Indian Independence, first and foremost I would like to wish the readers a prosperous and hope filled year ahead. Innumerable heroes, some known like Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi while some unknown like U Tirot Singh, Haipou Jadonang , Ropuiliani, Moje Riba et al., all played their parts and waged a ceaseless struggle to thwart the rule of the crown. As we reminisce about our hard earned freedom, it’s time we also reflect on the kind of freedom we have managed to achieve. We are yet to break free from the clutches of colonial administrative system. The cover story goads you to take a closer look at the price we paid to gain the so-called freedom. The past year proved to be a harbinger of some monumental changes in Indian politics. It witnessed the downfall of a dynasty and the uprising of the masses. How these changes bode for the future of this nation is a thing that remains to be seen. If the recently introduced Union Budget is something to go by, the Modi government is playing it safe for now. The funds allocated to various developmental works in Northeast India was long due. This issue brings to you a detailed analysis of this corrective budget and what it means for the people of this region.

A major cause for concern today is when the only metro city of Northeast India is plunged into chaos. The ensuing discord within the ruling party has been temporarily taken care of but it still leaves the people in a state of disarray. The entire region is affected when the centre of trade and connectivity is engulfed with uncertainty. In addition to this, the rain gods seem to wreaking havoc in the capital city of Gauhati bringing all activities to a standstill. Eastern Panorama’s Ratna Bharuli Talukdar interviewed the concerned officials to gain an insight into the measures being taken to counter the problem of monsoon floods in the area. Not too far away, in Barak Valley, the Cachar Paper Mill is battling its own war for survival against the polluted waters of the nearby Kopili river. Without an immediate resolution on the ban imposed on coal transportation and mining by the National Green Tribunal(NGT), the problem is further compounded.

Moving ahead I implore our readers to participate more actively in ensuring peace and stability in the nation. It is our moral obligation to take care of our motherland and not abuse the resources it offers. The massive deforestation drive can be halted only through an integrated effort by the government as well as the citizens. Planting a sapling every year will leave behind a richer legacy than all the wealth in the world.

Happy Independence Day Dear Readers!

Dr.K.K.Jhunjhunwala