Guwahati, Feb. 22 -- Guwahati is abuzz with activity as it prepares to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the upcoming Advantage Assam programme. The city is undergoing a visible transformation, with efforts focused on beautification projects such as painting footpaths, roads, and dividers, and the widespread installation of hoardings featuring the Prime Minister.

This flurry of activity has ignited a debate about priorities and resource allocation. Residents are questioning whether the attention and resources dedicated to this short visit are justified, given the persistent challenges they face daily. Many feel that the sudden focus on aesthetics highlights a disparity in service provision, where improvements seem to be triggered by ...