Assam's Chief Minister Launches Barak Valley Secretariat and Major Development Projects
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
In Silchar, on March 14, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma officially opened the Barak Valley Secretariat in Assam, marking a significant moment for the region. Alongside this, he inaugurated and laid the groundwork for various development initiatives, totaling approximately Rs 340 crore, spanning the districts of Cachar, Hailakandi, and Sribhumi.
During his address, the Chief Minister highlighted that this new Secretariat symbolizes a critical advancement in decentralizing governance and enhancing the accessibility of administration to the inhabitants of Barak Valley.
Occupying 15 bighas of land with a total constructed area of 18,585 square meters, the Assam Secretariat complex was completed in just 36 months.
The complex features a primary Secretariat building, an auditorium with a capacity of 747 seats, a guest house, the Chief Minister’s residence, as well as quarters for officers and staff.
The sixth floor of the building is designated for the offices of the Chief Minister, the Additional Chief Secretary, and the Minister of the Barak Valley Development Department.
CM Sarma expressed that for many years, administrative decisions in Assam were predominantly made in Guwahati. However, the current government is focused on promoting balanced regional growth and decentralization.
He noted that an Assembly session had previously taken place in Kokrajhar, and a new Secretariat has been set up in Dibrugarh, which also has an Assembly complex under construction.
“The government must reach out to the people instead of expecting them to approach the government,” said Sarma, emphasizing that the new Secretariat will enhance the accessibility of government services for Barak Valley residents.
Earlier that day, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the Silchar Convention Centre at Shilkuri in the Borkhola constituency, constructed at a cost of Rs 15.6 crore.
This facility includes a conference hall accommodating 142 attendees, guest rooms, VIP lounges, a media room, and parking for about 80 vehicles.
Additionally, Sarma laid the foundation stones for numerous infrastructure, healthcare, and connectivity projects across the districts of Cachar, Hailakandi, and Sribhumi.