Guwahati, Feb 25 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized on Wednesday the significance of economic empowerment for the youth as a means to protect the state's future. This remark came during the ceremonial launch of the initial distribution of financial aid under the Mukhya Mantrir Atmanirbhar Asom Abhiyan 2.0, aimed at selected entrepreneurs from the districts of Jorhat, Golaghat, and Majuli.

The event took place at the playground of Jorhat Institute of Science and Technology in Sotai, where a total of 5,958 entrepreneurs received financial support exceeding Rs 59 crore. Among the beneficiaries, 2,366 are from Jorhat, 2,995 from Golaghat, and 597 from Majuli, with 10 recipients falling under the professional category and 5,948 in the general category.

In this second phase of the initiative, the Assam government is set to provide over Rs 1,495 crore in financial assistance to 74,444 aspiring entrepreneurs throughout the state. Each beneficiary in the general category will receive Rs 2 lakh, while those in the professional category will obtain Rs 5 lakh.

While addressing the audience, the Chief Minister pointed out that approximately five lakh students sit for matriculation exams in Assam annually, with dreams of securing government jobs. However, with limited public sector opportunities, many young individuals are compelled to accept low-wage jobs outside the state, with about 20 lakh youths currently employed elsewhere due to a shortage of local employment options.

Sarma noted that historical political and social challenges have hindered industrial development, resulting in a less favorable investment environment and insufficient job creation. Over the past five years, more than 1.6 lakh youths have been granted government jobs.

He referenced significant upcoming projects, including a semiconductor unit at Jagiroad, a bio-refinery at Numaligarh, a urea-ammonia project at Namrup, and a thermal power project at Bilasipara, which are anticipated to create direct and indirect employment opportunities for nearly two lakh youths.

Emphasizing the need for entrepreneurship and skill development, Sarma encouraged the youth to aspire to be job creators instead of mere job seekers. He also revealed that 60,000 unemployed youths will be appointed to teaching roles within the next two years.

The Chief Minister urged the beneficiaries to use their financial assistance wisely, explaining that Rs 1 lakh is a government grant, while the remaining Rs 1 lakh is an interest-free loan repayable over five years. The second installment will be granted after proper utilization of the initial funds.

Present at the event were Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, Assam Ministers Atul Bora, Ajanta Neog, and Bimal Bora, along with MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa and several MLAs.