Assam celebrates 200 years of tea industry: 9,000 Jhumoir dancers welcome PM Modi
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In a spectacular celebration of Assam’s 200-year-old tea industry, nearly 9,000 Jhumoir dancers and drummers welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he began his two-day visit to the state.
The event, organised by the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government, highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Assam’s tea tribes and their significant contributions to the industry.
The Jhumoir Binandini programme, attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and heads of missions from 60 countries, showcased Assam’s vibrant traditions on an international platform. Addressing the gathering, PM Modi spoke of Assam’s deep connection with tea, referencing his own humble beginnings as a chaiwallah.
"Who will understand the smell and quality of tea better than a chaiwallah?" he remarked, emphasising that the northeast now has the best brand ambassador for promoting its tea industry.
With over 60 foreign diplomats present, PM Modi expressed confidence that Assam’s tea heritage would leave a lasting impression on global representatives.
"Today, these ambassadors will experience Assam firsthand. They will carry the flavor of Assam’s tea with them to the world," he added.
The Jhumoir dance performance was followed by a laser show, highlighting Assam’s cultural richness. PM Modi later inaugurated two special exhibition galleries under the ‘Advantage Assam 2.0 Infrastructure and Investment Summit’ in Guwahati’s Khanapara.
The ‘Pride of Assam’ gallery showcased traditional industries that define the state’s identity. The ‘Future of Assam’ gallery focused on modern industries and infrastructure developments, underscoring the state's growth potential.
"Assam is full of energy and excitement today," PM Modi said, adding that the spirit of the tea gardens was evident in the grand celebrations.
Recalling Assam’s record-breaking Bihu performance in 2023, where over 11,000 dancers participated, PM Modi expressed confidence that the mass Jhumoir performance would also create its own record.
PM Modi also announced initiatives aimed at uplifting tea garden workers, particularly women. 1.5 lakh pregnant women in tea gardens are now receiving financial assistance. 350 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are being opened across the state to provide better healthcare. Several Adivasi museums are being established nationwide to preserve tribal heritage.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasised that PM Modi’s visit sends a strong message to industrialists that the state is now peaceful and investment-friendly. He noted that Assam once had a higher GDP than the national average at the time of Independence but had suffered setbacks due to historical events and law and order issues over the past decades. "Now is the time for a big turnaround and a fresh journey. I believe Assam is finally on the right track toward progress and prosperity," the Chief Minister stated.