Guwahati, Feb 18 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Provincialisation Management System (PMS) portal on Wednesday, which the government heralded as a crucial and transparent initiative aimed at addressing the longstanding issue of provincialisation concerning venture educational institutions and their respective staff.

During the launch event at Lok Sewa Bhawan, Sarma emphasized that the PMS portal would facilitate the streamlining, monitoring, and processing of applications from non-provincialised venture schools and colleges, as well as their teaching and non-teaching personnel, in accordance with the Assam Education (Provincialisation of Services of Teachers and Re-Organisation of Educational Institutions) Act, 2017, amended in 2025.

Framing this initiative as both a governance improvement and a welfare strategy, the Chief Minister stated that the portal would establish a centralized database for venture institutions and their associated workforce, effectively eliminating confusion and alleged irregularities that have marred the provincialisation efforts for years.

Reflecting on his previous role as Education Minister, Sarma highlighted the achievements under the BJP-led government, noting that over 50,000 teachers at primary, secondary, and collegiate levels have been provincialised in phases since 2011.

The launch of the PMS portal signifies the third and most extensive phase, encompassing venture LP, UP/ME, high schools, higher secondary schools, and degree colleges.

In a politically noteworthy statement, Sarma acknowledged that not every applicant would meet the existing criteria.

To address this challenge, he mentioned that the government has rolled out a 'Gurudakshina' scheme in the Vote-on-Account Budget presented on February 17, which provides a financial package for individuals whose services cannot be provincialised.

Additionally, he introduced a preferential marking system to assist these individuals in competing for other government job opportunities.

The Chief Minister made it clear that only institutions established prior to January 1, 2006, would be eligible, and applicants must present their recognition, land documentation, academic performance, and staff credentials.

Encouraging cooperation from all stakeholders, Sarma reiterated the government's commitment to securing the future of venture institution employees while adhering to legal and administrative standards.

Present at the launch were Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, senior officials, and education board representatives, as this initiative is perceived as a strategic effort to consolidate support among educators ahead of significant political events in the state.