New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday called on insurgents in the Northeast to lay down their arms and integrate into the mainstream, emphasising that their participation in India's progress is most welcome. He was speaking at the 'Unity Utsav - One Voice, One Nation' event organised by the Assam Rifles in New Delhi.

"I appeal to all those insurgents who have not surrendered yet to lay down the arms and join the mainstream. Your participation in India's development journey is welcome," Shah said.

The home minister highlighted a significant decline in violence in the region over the last five years, stating, "There has been a 70 per cent reduction in violence in the Northeast, 70 per cent fewer casualties among security forces, and 85 per cent fewer civilian deaths." He also noted that more than 10,000 insurgents have surrendered in the past five years, 12 peace accords have been signed with different outfits, and two border agreements have been reached between states.

"The Northeast wants peace, the Northeast wants development, and the Northeast wants to work as an integral part of India," Shah said, reiterating the government's commitment to stability in the region.

He added that if the youth of the Northeast take two steps forward toward development, the entire country will take four steps to welcome them into the mainstream. "Every part of the country has a special place for the Northeast in their hearts," he remarked.

Shah also lauded the cultural richness of the region, stating, "Without the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast, India is incomplete." He noted that the Northeast is home to over 220 different communities, 160 tribes, 200 languages and dialects, 50 unique festivals, and over 30 traditional dance forms.