Assam, Arunachal mark historic border milestone with first pillar at Seijosa

Guwahati: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday described the erection of the first border pillar between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh as a “historic milestone”, calling it a moment that ends decades of uncertainty over the inter-state boundary.

The pillar was installed at Seijosa in Pakke Kesang district on Sunday, marking the beginning of a long-awaited demarcation process. “A historic milestone has been reached! Post the signing of the Namsai Declaration, the first border pillar between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh has been installed,” Sarma said in a post on X.


The Namsai Declaration, signed by Sarma and Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu on July 15, 2022, set in motion measures to resolve disputes in 123 villages claimed by both states. A follow-up MoU was signed in New Delhi on April 20, 2023, in the presence of Union home minister Amit Shah, formalising the roadmap for settlement.

Sarma said the development was “truly momentous”, adding: “Under the leadership of Adarniya Narendra Modi ji, the Ashtalakshmi region is moving forward as a cohesive unit. With the guidance of Adarniya Amit Shah ji, we will sustain these efforts. Gratitude to Hon’ble CM Shri Pema Khandu ji for his support in these efforts.”

Khandu, welcoming the installation, said: “The Seijosa pillar sets the blueprint for the remaining demarcation process, strengthening cooperation between the two sister states and paving the way for lasting harmony, development and confidence among the people residing in the border regions.”

The two states share an 804.1 km boundary, touching eight districts of Assam and 12 districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Out of the 123 disputed villages, differences in 71 have already been resolved, while the process is underway to address the remaining 52.

Officials said the erection of the first pillar is expected to accelerate the settlement process, bringing relief to communities that have lived with uncertainty for decades. The move is being hailed as a symbol of reconciliation and cooperative federalism, with both governments emphasising peace and development in the sensitive border belt.