Assam CM Engages with Union Ministers on Development Initiatives
Chief Minister's Meetings in New Delhi
CM Sarma with Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu, in New Delhi on Thursday. (Photo:@himantabiswa/X)
Guwahati, July 2: On Thursday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conducted a series of discussions with Union Ministers in New Delhi, addressing various topics including fisheries, dairy development, flood recovery, and the establishment of new airports in the state.
The Chief Minister's initial meeting was with Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh. They focused on enhancing Assam's capabilities in the fisheries and dairy industries.
Sarma emphasized the need to boost fish production and export capabilities by improving the value chain, processing facilities, and market access, aiming to make Assam a significant player in fish production and exports.
In terms of dairy, discussions included strengthening the cooperative network, enhancing veterinary services, establishing Pashu Aushadhi Kendras, and improving cattle quality through artificial insemination.
Singh characterized the meeting as "warm and productive," highlighting the importance of collaboration between the Central and state governments to foster growth in these sectors, ultimately benefiting farmers and rural communities.
Following this, Sarma met with Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, to discuss flood relief and rehabilitation efforts in Assam.
Sarma expressed appreciation for Rijiju's recent visit to Assam to assess the flood situation, noting the valuable insights shared during their discussions.
"Our double engine government will enhance rehabilitation efforts to restore the livelihoods of those affected by the floods," Sarma stated on social media.
Rijiju, in a separate social media update, praised Sarma for the proactive steps taken by the state government during the monsoon floods, commending his leadership for advancing Assam's development.
This meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration between the Centre and the state regarding relief and long-term recovery strategies following this year's monsoon floods.
Additionally, Sarma met with Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, to discuss Assam's aspirations to become a prominent aviation and logistics hub.
They reviewed the status of six proposed greenfield airports in the state, located in Silchar, Manas, Umrangso, Majuli, Diphu, and Charaideo, as well as a proposed heliport in Haflong.
Regarding the Silchar airport, Sarma noted that most preparatory work is complete and urged the Ministry to expedite the process. For the other proposed airports, both leaders agreed to hasten the ongoing pre-feasibility studies.
The meeting also included discussions on the expansion of Rupsi Airport. "This is an exciting time for Assam's aviation sector. We are not only enhancing connectivity but also creating new opportunities for our citizens," Sarma remarked.
Additional Chief Secretary K K Dwivedi and Resident Commissioner of Assam Bhawan Kavitha Padmanabhan were present during these meetings, along with senior officials from relevant ministries.