Guwahati, Dec 7 (NationPress) In a significant advancement for infrastructure development in Barak Valley, the Assam Cabinet convened on Sunday to sanction the transfer of 3,000 bighas of land from Doloo Tea Estate in Silchar to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This pivotal decision is aimed at facilitating the long-awaited construction of a greenfield airport, a crucial step toward obtaining the necessary approval from the Union Cabinet.

The meeting was presided over by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma at Lok Sewa Bhawan, and the outcome is anticipated to rejuvenate support for the airport initiative, which has been embroiled in political debates, land disputes, and public protests in recent years.

Once the project receives clearance from the Union government and construction commences, the new airport is expected to enhance connectivity in Barak Valley, lessen reliance on Kumbhirgram Airport, and stimulate economic growth throughout southern Assam and its neighboring areas.

Officials indicated that the Cabinet's approval for the land transfer eliminates the last major procedural obstacle before the proposal is forwarded to the Union Cabinet for final endorsement.

A senior government official remarked that this initiative complements Assam's strategic vision to bolster air infrastructure, benefitting regional trade, tourism, and logistics.

Although the land acquisition from Doloo Tea Estate has previously ignited controversy regarding the alleged forced eviction of tea laborers and destruction of tea plants, government representatives assert that all acquisition processes were conducted lawfully and serve the long-term public interest.

With the approval granted on Sunday, the state government is poised to expedite collaboration with the AAI and the central government to finalize the project framework, rehabilitation strategies, and financial plans before construction begins.

In addition to the Doloo Tea Estate decision, the Cabinet also endorsed a number of significant proposals, including land allocation for 1,200 families under Mission Basundhara, the Assam Logistics and Warehousing Policy 2025, and a collaborative project between Assam Engineering College and Dassault Systems to introduce advanced programs in aerospace, defense, automotive, and electric mobility.

The Cabinet further approved compensation for 884 families impacted by land acquisition for a four-lane National Highway project in Dima Hasao district, administrative authorization for Assam's second Sainik School to be located in Longvaku in Karbi Anglong, and the incorporation of Assam's history and geography as mandatory subjects for students in Classes 6 to 8.