While the COVID 19 pandemic threw up unprecedented challenges before the world, India has been able to emerge from it more resilient and self-sufficient, said governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi in his speech after unfurling the Tricolour on the occasion of the 72nd Republic Day here on Tuesday.
Prof. Mukhi said, "The year gone by was very challenging for us. The COVID 19 pandemic tested our patience and resilience. The world was unprepared to face the deadly virus which ultimately turned into one of the biggest challenges in recent memory."
He maintained that the timely decision of nationwide lockdown, coupled with the expansion of core public health measures went a long way in arresting the spread of the virus in the country.
He praised the efforts of the frontline COVID warriors as well as the combined efforts of the masses in supplementing the government's efforts in combating the spread of the pandemic.
He also said that the scientists have produced the vaccine to save humanity from the scourge of coronavirus.
“The thrust given by the Prime Minister for Atmanirbhar Bharat has created the platform for our scientists to produce the vaccine”, he said. The Governor further said the pandemic also presented the opportunity for the people to explore their potentials and the government's 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan' has helped the economy to survive the pandemic.
He mentioned how the farmers of Assam during the pandemic were able to export agricultural produce outside the State as well as country, and women SHGs produced masks that earned them crores of rupees.
"In the journey of our economic self-reliance, this is just the beginning," he added.
The Governor also dwelt on the developmental activities and schemes of the government, highlighting the return of peace to the state which has further accelerated growth.
“A lot of decisions and policies have been taken to encourage local entrepreneurs in last four and half years. To take advantage of the central government’s decision regarding reclassification of bamboo from tree to grass, the government has come up with Assam Bamboo and Cane Policy, 2019 providing a lot of incentives for entrepreneurs of the State to take up bamboo industries in a big way,” he further added.
