In a significant push leading up to the upcoming elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a series of high-profile events across Assam and West Bengal. These events include a cultural spectacle featuring 10,000 dancers in Assam, the flagging off of a new Vande Bharat Express train, and a series of political rallies in West Bengal.
Assam: A Cultural Extravaganza
On January 17, Guwahati will host a massive cultural event where over 10,000 artists will perform the Bagurumba dance, a traditional folk dance of the Bodo community. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that this event aims to showcase Assam's rich cultural heritage to a global audience, following similar efforts to promote Bihu and Jhumoir. The preparations for the event are in full swing, with rehearsals commencing from January 12 to ensure a flawless performance. The Prime Minister's presence at this event underscores the government's commitment to preserving and promoting India's diverse art forms.
Vande Bharat Express: Enhancing Connectivity
Adding to the infrastructure development, the Prime Minister is set to flag off the first Vande Bharat sleeper train between Guwahati and Howrah. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the services would likely commence around January 18 or 19. This new train, consisting of 16 coaches with a passenger capacity of 823, marks the launch of India's first overnight semi-high-speed service. The train will connect key districts in Assam and West Bengal, offering a faster and more comfortable travel experience. The introduction of Vande Bharat trains aligns with the "Make in India" initiative and aims to replace existing Shatabdi and Rajdhani Express trains. The fares for the Guwahati-Howrah route are designed to be affordable, with 3rd AC fares around ₹2,300, 2nd AC around ₹3,000, and 1st AC around ₹3,600, including food.
West Bengal: Political Rallies
In West Bengal, the political atmosphere is heating up as Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address public meetings in North Malda on January 17 and Howrah on January 18. These rallies are part of the BJP's strategy to build momentum ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. The Prime Minister's visit follows a disrupted trip in December 2025, when his helicopter couldn't land in Nadia's Taherpur due to poor visibility. During that time, he addressed supporters virtually, criticizing the state administration for alleged corruption and calling for a change in government. The upcoming rallies are strategically planned in regions considered high-stakes battlegrounds. The BJP aims to consolidate support, particularly in the context of the Summary Interim Revision (SIR) process, which has sparked controversy between the TMC and BJP.
These multifaceted events highlight the Prime Minister's focus on cultural promotion, infrastructure development, and political outreach as the country gears up for upcoming elections.
