Assam Government Resumes Subsidized Distribution of Lentils and Sugar

The Assam government has restarted its welfare initiative by distributing red lentils and sugar at subsidized rates in Raha, Nagaon. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that while salt is temporarily unavailable, it will be provided soon. The program currently supports around 70 lakh families across the state, with plans to extend further assistance to economically weaker sections. This relaunch follows previous initiatives, including the Orunodoi scheme, and aims to enhance food security for residents. The government is committed to resuming additional benefits like mustard oil and salt shortly.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 10, 2026, 14:01 IST

Subsidized Food Distribution Relaunched in Assam

CM Sarma in Raha on Monday

Guwahati, Aug 10: The Assam administration has recommenced the distribution of red lentils (masoor dal) and sugar at subsidized prices in Raha, Nagaon, as part of its welfare initiatives aimed at supporting families throughout the state.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated, “Currently, we are unable to provide salt due to certain challenges, but it will be available soon. From the 1st to the 10th of each month, during Anna Seva Saptah, residents can receive free rice, sugar, and lentils at subsidized rates. We will also introduce mustard oil and salt as promised.”

Sarma explained that the implementation of these schemes faced delays due to severe flooding in Upper Assam. “Following the elections, our focus shifted to addressing the flood crisis in Upper Assam, which caused some postponements,” he noted.

As per Sarma, the initiative currently assists approximately 70 lakh families, benefiting a total of 2,48,11,645 individuals across Assam.

“In Nagaon, 3,85,299 families are part of this program, impacting around 15,83,080 people. In Raha, 61,614 families are included, covering about 2.36 lakh individuals,” he added.

The Chief Minister assured that the government would enhance support for economically disadvantaged groups in the near future.

On August 1, the government had also relaunched the Orunodoi scheme for beneficiaries statewide.

“After the elections, many initiatives were paused due to the absence of a Budget Session. I had communicated that following the Budget Session in July, we would resume our programs starting in August. We relaunched Orunodoi Asoni on August 1, introduced the Nijut Babu and Nijut Moina Asoni on August 6, and today we are distributing sugar and masoor dal,” Sarma stated.

This relaunch signifies the continuation of subsidized food distribution under the government’s welfare program, with mustard oil and salt anticipated to be included in the benefits soon.