H.D. Kumaraswamy Dedicates Advanced Ambulance, Reviews Industrial Revival in Bokajan

In a step forward for both public health and industrial rejuvenation in the Northeast, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, today virtually dedicated a Life-Saving Advanced Ambulance to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Bokajan, Assam, under a CSR initiative by Richardson & Cruddas Ltd., coordinated with Cement Corporation of India (CCI) Bokajan. This initiative marks a tangible effort to bridge healthcare gaps in remote areas and symbolizes the broader vision of inclusive development in the Northeast.

A Lifeline for Emergency Care in Bokajan and Beyond

The newly donated advanced ambulance is set to significantly enhance emergency response capacity in Bokajan and neighbouring areas. Currently, the CHC struggles to manage serious cases requiring advanced care. With this addition, critically ill patients can now be swiftly and safely transported to tertiary care hospitals in Diphu, Jorhat, and Dimapur—cities with better-equipped healthcare infrastructure.

This vital donation was made possible through sustained efforts from local leaders, including Dr. Numal Momin, MLA and Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly, who formally requested the ambulance. The advanced vehicle is expected to serve over seven surrounding towns and villages, including Chandrapur, Sukhanjan, Sarihajan, Dillai, Hidpi, Madhopur, and Khatkhati.

“This is a critical step in improving medical access for our people. The ambulance will not only save lives but also reinforce our commitment to community-first development,” said Shri Kumaraswamy.

Honoring PM Modi’s Northeast Outreach Policy

Minister Kumaraswamy expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his unwavering commitment to Northeast development. Since 2015, the Prime Minister has ensured that a Union Minister visits the region every 15 days, deepening the Centre’s engagement and accelerating local progress.

“This visionary initiative has transformed the development landscape of the Northeast. We now see real-time improvements in connectivity, healthcare, and industry. The people of the region truly deserve the best,” he added.

Bokajan Cement Plant: From Struggle to Success

Alongside the healthcare advancement, Shri Kumaraswamy also reviewed the operational progress at the CCI Bokajan Cement Plant, a key industrial unit under the Ministry of Heavy Industries. Commissioned in 1976, the plant produces 43-grade Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) and has an annual capacity of 1.98 lakh metric tonnes.

Once grappling with losses, the Bokajan unit has turned profitable over the past three years. Today, it supports around 450 direct employees and 1,000 indirect workers, becoming a significant employer in the Karbi Anglong region.

“Thanks to the spirit of the people and the backing of the government, Bokajan is witnessing a remarkable turnaround. Expansion plans are under active consideration, which could potentially increase employment fivefold, making the plant a central pillar of Assam’s industrial economy,” the Minister remarked.

Driving Sustainability Through Industrial Innovation

During his earlier visit to Bokajan on 21st September 2024, Shri Kumaraswamy inaugurated two key projects:

• The Hot Air Duct to Raw Mills, which is now saving approximately 11 tonnes of coal daily

• A 1 MW Solar Power Project, aimed at reducing energy costs and carbon emissions

These projects represent Bokajan’s evolution into a modern, energy-efficient, and environmentally conscious facility, aligning with India’s renewable energy and net-zero targets.

“By embracing green technologies and smart planning, we are creating a model of sustainable industry in Bokajan that can be replicated nationwide,” the Minister stated.

A Vision for a Self-Reliant Northeast

Reaffirming the Centre’s focus on “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, Shri Kumaraswamy emphasized the need for balanced regional development. The Ministry is currently exploring avenues to utilize local resources through the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and establish new industries that align with local needs and national priorities.

The Union Minister extended thanks to Shri Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member of KAAC, Dr. Numal Momin, and the people of Bokajan for their collaboration and enthusiasm in transforming the region.

“We are committed to empowering every community in the Northeast. Through stronger industries, reliable healthcare, and sustainable infrastructure, we are building the foundation of a truly self-reliant India,” said Shri Kumaraswamy in his closing remarks.

Looking Ahead

The initiatives in Bokajan signal a new era of integrated development, where industry, infrastructure, and healthcare go hand-in-hand. As the government deepens its focus on the Northeast, such interventions will continue to unlock the potential of remote regions and improve lives through multi-sectoral partnerships.