Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma calls for greater recognition of the Northeast's stories of courage and transformation
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On Tuesday, August 26, a new book named Grit & Glory by author Abhijit Joag was launched at a programme held at the Vichar Vinimay Nyas Auditorium in New Delhi, with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attending as Chief Guest.
The launch was organised by Suruchi Prakashan under the leadership of its Chairman, Rajiv Tuli. The audience included writers, intellectuals, media professionals, book enthusiasts, and members of the public, with a notable presence of intellectuals from the Northeast.
Suruchi Prakashan said the publication is part of its broader mission to bring works centered on India's history, culture, society and national life to a wider readership, with Grit & Glory adding to that body of work by spotlighting stories of courage, perseverance and transformation from the northeastern region.
Published by Suruchi Prakashan, the book chronicles the stories of individuals from India's northeastern states who have overcome hardship through resilience and sustained effort, documenting how ordinary people brought meaningful change to their communities. Panchjanya editor Hitesh Shankar attended as Guest of Honour, while social worker Hari Maruti Mirasdar also addressed the gathering.
Book by Abhijit Joag was launched in New Delhi (Newsbharati)
Speaking at the event, CM Sarma said nationalist sentiment is now being expressed strongly across the Northeast, with a growing sense of belonging replacing earlier feelings of alienation. He credited Sangh workers' sacrifice and dedication for driving this shift, describing the book as a record of the sacrifices made by those who gave their lives for the nation.
Hitesh Shankar characterized the book as centered on awakening rather than mere transformation, noting it blends first-hand testimony with data. Social worker Hari Maruti Mirasdar shared that the book drew on interviews with 175 activists across different states, while noting many more remain to be documented. He called it a valuable effort to preserve the history of those who worked to ensure the national flag could be freely unfurled in the region.
My book 'Grit & Glory' on how India's estranged Northeast region was transformed one heart at a time, will be released by Assam CM, Hon. Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma on August 25, 2026.
— Abhijit Joag (@abhijitjoag) August 20, 2026
Friends in Delhi are cordially invited.#BookLaunch #NorthEast #GritandGlory pic.twitter.com/NzcHlZbX8H
Author Abhijit Joag spoke about the book's background, sharing the personal experiences and stories that motivated him to take up the project. The programme opened with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by the welcome of dignitaries and a brief introduction to publisher Suruchi Prakashan. Joag then formally introduced the book before the floor was opened to addresses from the guests.
The launch was organised by Suruchi Prakashan under the leadership of its Chairman, Rajiv Tuli. The audience included writers, intellectuals, media professionals, book enthusiasts, and members of the public, with a notable presence of intellectuals from the Northeast.
Suruchi Prakashan said the publication is part of its broader mission to bring works centered on India's history, culture, society and national life to a wider readership, with Grit & Glory adding to that body of work by spotlighting stories of courage, perseverance and transformation from the northeastern region.