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Key Points

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is reviewing key government schemes ahead of next year's Assembly elections. He has declared five western Assam districts as drought-affected due to a 40% rainfall deficit. The state cabinet also approved a Rs 342 crore welfare scheme for tea garden workers. The initiative includes direct cash transfers to nearly seven lakh beneficiaries as part of Assam's 200-year tea celebration.

Key Points: CM Himanta Sarma Reviews Assam Schemes Ahead of Assembly Polls

  • CM Sarma tours upper Assam to assess govt scheme progress
  • Declares drought in 5 western Assam districts with 40% rain deficit
  • Approves Rs 342 crore aid for tea garden workers
  • Direct benefit transfer to Aadhaar-linked accounts for transparency
2 min read

CM Sarma to review implementation of govt schemes in upper Assam

Assam CM Himanta Sarma inspects govt schemes in upper Assam, declares drought in 5 districts, and launches tea worker welfare plan.

"“This is a token of gratitude to the tea garden workers for their immense contribution to Assam’s identity and economy.” – CM Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, July 23

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday began his tour in upper Assam area to take stock of the implementation of key government schemes in that region.

The move aims to ensure timely enactment of government projects targeting the Assembly polls, which are due in Assam next year.

The CM has been conducting review meetings with top government officials in recent days to gauge the effect of government programmes in the rural and urban areas.

Recently, CM Sarma said that five districts in western Assam are facing a drought-like situation due to significantly below-normal rainfall this monsoon. Speaking at a press conference following a cabinet meeting here, he said the affected districts -- Kokrajhar, Barpeta, Dhubri, Baksa, and Bongaigaon -- have recorded a 40 per cent rainfall deficit, as per data from the India Meteorological Department and the Central Ground Water Board.

“In view of the situation, the Revenue Department will officially declare these districts as drought-affected,” the Chief Minister said.

He added that farmers who insured their crops under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana would be eligible for compensation.

Some eastern Assam districts have also reported inconsistent rainfall, ranging from deficient to excessive, CM Sarma noted.

Meanwhile, in a significant development, the Assam Cabinet has approved financial sanction for the implementation of the ‘Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli Duti Paat’ scheme, aimed at supporting tea garden workers across the state.

With an outlay of Rs 342 crore, the flagship initiative is part of the government’s year-long celebration of 200 years of Assam Tea.

The scheme seeks to offer a one-time financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to each eligible tea garden worker, targeting nearly seven lakh beneficiaries, including both permanent and temporary workers.

The funds will be directly transferred to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts to promote financial inclusion.

“This is a token of gratitude to the tea garden workers for their immense contribution to Assam’s identity and economy,” CM Sarma said, highlighting the scheme’s importance in ensuring social security for one of the state's most vital workforces.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While the drought situation is concerning, I appreciate the CM's proactive approach. But why wait until districts are officially declared drought-affected? Preventive measures should start when rainfall deficit crosses 20%, not 40%.
A
Aman W
Tea workers deserve more than just one-time assistance. What about proper housing, healthcare and education for their children? 200 years of Assam Tea should mean permanent benefits, not just token gestures before elections.
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Sarah B
As someone working in rural development, I've seen how direct benefit transfers can transform lives. The Aadhaar-linked payments for tea workers is a smart move - reduces corruption and ensures money reaches the right hands. More states should adopt this!
K
Karthik V
The CM's tour is just an election gimmick. Every year before polls they suddenly remember to implement schemes properly. Where was this urgency last year? We need consistent governance, not seasonal attention.
N
Nisha Z
Good to see focus on both drought relief and tea workers. But what about long-term solutions? We need better irrigation systems and crop diversification to prevent such crises every few years. Assam's agriculture needs modernization! 🌾
D
David E
The financial inclusion aspect is impressive. Linking benefits to Aadhaar ensures transparency. However, the government must

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