Assam Government Waives Stamp Duty for Self-Help Group Loans

In a recent cabinet meeting, the Assam government announced a waiver of stamp duty on loans up to Rs 10 lakh for self-help group members. Chief Minister Himanta Sarma detailed various initiatives, including new regulations for Ayurvedic health services and amendments to medical college admission rules, ensuring better representation for certain communities. The government also approved measures for orphan candidates and outlined procurement strategies for essential commodities. These decisions aim to enhance livelihood opportunities and educational access in the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 26, 2026, 16:10 IST

Key Decisions from Assam Cabinet Meeting

File image of Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma (Photo: @himantabiswa/X)

Guwahati, July 26: The Assam government has announced a waiver of stamp duty on loans up to Rs 10 lakh for members of self-help groups (SHGs).

During a press briefing on Saturday, Chief Minister Himanta Sarma revealed that the state cabinet has sanctioned this waiver for individual loan documents executed by SHG members under the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission.

This waiver applies to loans aimed at livelihood and enterprise purposes, sourced from scheduled commercial banks, regional rural banks, cooperative banks, or other financial institutions overseen by the Reserve Bank of India, as stated by Sarma following the cabinet meeting.

Additionally, the Cabinet has mandated the registration of various agreements, including those related to sales, development, property powers of attorney, short-term leases, equitable mortgages, sale certificates, bank guarantees, and partnerships involving immovable property.

The cabinet also approved the Assam Ayurvedic Health Services Rules, 2026, which will govern the recruitment and service conditions for Medical Officers (AYURVEDA) within the Assam Ayurvedic Health Service under the Health and Family Welfare Department.

Moreover, the Cabinet has amended 'The Medical Colleges and Dental Colleges of Assam, (Regulation of Admission into 1st year MBBS/BDS courses) Rules, 2017', ensuring additional reservations for the Moran, Matak, Koch Rajbongshi, Tai Ahom, and Chutia communities in the state's medical colleges.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced the reservation of two MBBS seats specifically for orphan candidates residing in Assam, which will be allocated against their respective social category seats.

According to Sarma, the cabinet has also approved the admission of students under the state quota for permanent residents of Assam for three generations, even if they were educated outside the state.

Lastly, the government has approved the procurement method for masoor dal and sugar for the period from October 2026 to March 2027, with NAFED responsible for floating tenders and determining rates based on open market conditions.