Union Government announced Rs 207 crore for development of Majuli Island

The Union Government on 20 December 2016 announced Rs 207 crore to undertake developmental works in Majuli Island in Assam.

The announcement was made by the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jitendra Singh in New Delhi.

The sanctioned amount will be spent primarily for safeguarding the land loss due to erosion and to protect the 80 km length of the bank line on the right bank of river Brahmaputra.

Key facts related to Majuli Island

• It was declared as India’s first Island district in June 2016 by the Assam Government.

• It is a fluvial landform (a riverine delta), a unique geographical occurrence and a result of the dynamics of the Brahmaputra river system.

• It is bounded by the river Subanisri and her tributaries on the North West, the kherkatia Suli in the northeast and the main Brahmaputra River on the South and the South west.

• It is the largest mid- iver delta system in the world. It is also comprised of many islets locally called the Chaporis.

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• It is the abode of Vaisnavite culture. This culture was initiated in the 15th century by Srimanta Sankardeva.

• At present, there is a total of 30 Vaishnavite monasteries on the island. These include the famous Dakhinpat Satra which was established in 1584 AD.

• Each Sattra acts as a centre for cultural as well as political activities. It also acts as a democratic institution to settle local disputes.

• The Majuli Island is a hotspot for flora and fauna. It harbours many rare and endangered avifauna species including migratory birds that arrive in the winter season annually.

• Paddy, mustard, potato, pulses, sugarcane, wheat are the main crops cultivated on the island.

• Various seasonal vegetables and fruits like orange, banana, pineapple, jackfruit, etc are also grown in abundant quantity.