What Measures is the Assam Cabinet Taking to Address Human-Elephant Conflict?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Assam Cabinet has approved the Gaja Mitra Scheme and various welfare initiatives. This aims to address rising human-elephant conflicts, enhance healthcare, and support students and traditional artisans. Discover how these measures will impact the local communities and ensure ecological balance.
Key Takeaways
- Implementation of Gaja Mitra Scheme in high-risk districts.
- Formation of community-based rapid response teams.
- Increased remuneration for village heads.
- Additional stipends for Anganwadi workers and Satras.
- New SOP for timely release of deceased patients' bodies.
Guwahati, July 10 (NationPress) The Assam Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has recently sanctioned a series of pivotal measures aimed at mitigating human-elephant conflicts, enhancing healthcare protocols, and advancing welfare initiatives for students and traditional artisans.
To combat the escalating human-elephant conflicts, the government will roll out the Gaja Mitra Scheme across eight districts identified as high-risk: Goalpara, Udalguri, Nagaon, Baksa, Sonitpur, Golaghat, Jorhat, and Biswanath. Community-based rapid response teams, each consisting of eight local members, will be established in 80 villages prone to conflict.
These teams are set to function during critical conflict periods, which align with the paddy cultivation season, to safeguard both elephant movement and local livelihoods.
A senior government official announced that the remuneration for village heads will increase from Rs 9,000 to Rs 14,000 starting October 1, 2025, reflecting their expanded roles.
In addition, Satras in Assam will be allocated a monthly stipend of Rs 1,500 in recognition of their efforts in preserving cultural heritage.
Anganwadi workers and their helpers will see a rise in their monthly earnings, receiving an additional Rs 1,500 and Rs 750, respectively, bringing their total to Rs 8,000 and Rs 4,000.
A newly established Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) mandates that private hospitals release the bodies of deceased patients within two hours of death certification, imposing penalties for non-compliance. A 24x7 helpline (104) will be available for addressing coercion-related complaints.
Additionally, Class X students preparing for the 2026 HSLC exams will benefit from a monthly assistance of Rs 300 under the Prerona Aasoni scheme through direct benefit transfer (DBT).
A senior official confirmed that indigenous bell metal manufacturers will benefit from SGST reimbursement due to a newly introduced scheme.
Furthermore, Rabindranath Tagore University will be renamed Rabindranath Thakur Vishwavidyalaya. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining ecological balance, enhancing social welfare, and improving administrative efficiency.
Point of View
The Assam Cabinet's recent decisions reflect a balanced approach to ecological conservation and social welfare. By prioritizing both human safety and wildlife protection, the government is setting a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges. It’s crucial for governance to align with community needs while safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting sustainable practices.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gaja Mitra Scheme?
The Gaja Mitra Scheme is an initiative by the Assam government to address human-elephant conflicts in high-risk districts by establishing community-based rapid response teams.
Which districts will benefit from the Gaja Mitra Scheme?
The scheme will be implemented in eight high-risk districts: Goalpara, Udalguri, Nagaon, Baksa, Sonitpur, Golaghat, Jorhat, and Biswanath.
How will village heads’ remuneration change?
Starting October 1, 2025, village heads will see their monthly pay rise from Rs 9,000 to Rs 14,000.
What support will be provided to Anganwadi workers?
Anganwadi workers will receive an additional Rs 1,500, bringing their total earnings to Rs 8,000, while helpers will earn Rs 4,000 after an increase of Rs 750.
What cultural recognition is being provided to Satras?
Satras in Assam will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 1,500 as recognition for their role in preserving cultural traditions.
