Assam Cabinet Approves Major Infrastructure and Welfare Initiatives
Synopsis
In a groundbreaking meeting, the Assam Cabinet, led by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, approved key measures across various sectors, including infrastructure, welfare, and industry, promising significant enhancements in development and support for the state's population.
Key Takeaways
Reinstatement of 57 Junior Engineers to ensure continuity in projects.
Land allotment to 326 beneficiaries under Mission Basundhara.
Approval for a College of Agriculture in Sribhumi district.
Incentives for a 100-room five-star hotel in Silchar.
Loan of Rs 519 crore for projects in Sixth Schedule areas.
Guwahati, February 26 (NationPress) — The Assam Cabinet convened a significant meeting led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma at Lok Sewa Bhawan on Thursday, where numerous pivotal decisions were made regarding infrastructure, welfare, industry, agriculture, health, and governance.
The Cabinet has reinstated 57 Junior Engineers (Civil) in accordance with Regulation 3(f) of the Public Works Department (PWD), following their previous disqualification in November 2025 from the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) recruitment for 650 Junior Engineer (Civil) positions.
These engineers, who have been part of the department since 2019, bring valuable technical expertise, and their return is anticipated to enhance experienced workforce retention and maintain momentum on ongoing infrastructure initiatives.
As part of the Mission Basundhara, the Cabinet has allocated land to 326 beneficiaries, demonstrating the state government's continued commitment to land settlement and welfare efforts.
Furthermore, the Cabinet granted administrative approval for establishing a College of Agriculture in Patharkandi, Sribhumi district, with an investment of Rs 122.22 crore, aimed at bolstering agricultural education and offering technical assistance to farmers, agri-startups, and rural youth, especially within the Barak Valley.
To foster industrial development, the Cabinet sanctioned tailored incentives under the Industrial and Investment Policy of Assam (IIPA), 2019. This includes incentives for a company to set up a 100-room five-star hotel in Silchar, backed by an investment of Rs 103.92 crore, which is expected to enhance tourism and hospitality infrastructure.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved a loan of Rs 519 crore from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to facilitate 241 projects in Sixth Schedule districts and border areas.
In a bid to enhance air travel and tourism, the Cabinet agreed to lower the Value Added Tax (VAT) on aviation turbine fuel from 23.65 paise per rupee to 18.65 paise per rupee.
Among various welfare initiatives, the Cabinet confirmed the release of the second tranche under the MMUA scheme starting March 11.
It also launched the ASHA Express scheme, which aims to provide two-wheelers to over 36,000 ASHA workers and supervisors, thereby improving healthcare outreach and service delivery.
The Cabinet allocated Rs 9,000 in Orunodoi assistance for approximately 39.7 lakh beneficiaries under the welfare program.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved a Grade III government position for the spouse of the late Rajib Sadiya under compassionate grounds.
Point of View
Welfare, and industrial growth. By reinstating experienced engineers and approving significant investments in education and healthcare, the government demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development that prioritizes the needs of its citizens.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What key decisions were made by the Assam Cabinet?
The Assam Cabinet approved various measures including the re-appointment of Junior Engineers, land allotment under Mission Basundhara, establishment of a College of Agriculture, and incentives for industrial growth.
How will the reinstatement of Junior Engineers impact infrastructure projects?
The reinstatement of Junior Engineers is expected to retain experienced manpower, ensuring continuity and effectiveness in executing ongoing infrastructure projects.
What is the significance of the College of Agriculture in Patharkandi?
The College of Agriculture aims to enhance agricultural education and provide technical support to local farmers and agri-startups, contributing to the economic development of the Barak Valley.
What initiatives were taken for welfare?
The Cabinet approved the second installment under the MMUA scheme, launched the ASHA Express scheme for healthcare workers, and allocated Orunodoi assistance to beneficiaries.
How will the VAT reduction on aviation fuel affect tourism?
Lowering the VAT on aviation fuel is expected to enhance air connectivity and reduce travel costs, thereby boosting the tourism sector in Assam.
