PM Modi to visit Kolkata for Bose's birth anniversary celebrations
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address Parakram Diwas celebrations in Kolkata on January 23 to commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, an iconic freedom fighter who hailed from the state. The Prime Minister's Office said he will also distribute over one lakh land 'pattas' (allotment certificates) in Sivasagar, Assam on the same day.
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Bose's birthday to be celebrated every year as 'Parakram Diwas'
The Prime Minister's Office noted that the Central Government has recently decided to celebrate Bose's birthday every year as 'Parakram Diwas' to honor and remember his indomitable spirit and selfless service to the nation.
Assembly polls
Assam and Kolkata are headed to assembly polls in April-May
Modi's visit to the two states assumes significance as both are headed for assembly polls in April-May. The BJP as well as the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal have planned a number of events around Bose, often called Netaji by admirers, as they seek to woo the voters ahead of the polls.
Inaugural function
The inaugural function will be held at Kolkata's Victoria Memorial
Modi will preside over the inaugural function of the celebrations at Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. A permanent exhibition and a projection mapping show on Bose will be inaugurated on the occasion. A commemorative coin and postage stamp will also be released by the Prime Minister, and a cultural program Amra Nuton Jouboneri Doot will also be held.
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Modi will also visit Kolkata's National Library before the event
Before this event, Modi will visit the National Library, Kolkata, where an international conference "Revisiting the legacy of Netaji Subhas in the 21st century" and an artists' camp are being organized. "He will interact with the artists and other participants," the PMO said.
Assam
PM Modi to distribute 1.06 lakh land pattas in Assam
Modi will distribute 1.06 lakh land 'pattas' in Assam. Taking into account an urgent need to protect the land rights of indigenous people of the state, the Assam Government came out with a comprehensive new land policy with a renewed emphasis on protecting their rights. Assam had 5.75 lakh landless families in 2016. The present Government has distributed 2.28 lakh land pattas since then.
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Allotment certificates for indigenous population were given the highest priority
"The issuance of allotment certificates for the state's indigenous population has been given the highest priority in order to instill a sense of security amongst them," the PMO said.