Key Discussions at Assam's Deputy Commissioners Conference
Overview of the Conference
Assam CM chairing the DC meet in Jorhat. (Photo:@himantabiswa/X)
Jorhat, Sept 15: During a two-day conference, key topics such as education, investment, health, and the Viksit Assam initiative were addressed, as stated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday.
Addressing Educational Challenges
In a press briefing following the conference, Sarma highlighted the significant discussions regarding the alarming dropout rates in secondary schools and potential solutions to this issue.
“We focused on various aspects, particularly the educational sector in Assam, where dropout rates remain a concern. Extensive discussions were held on how to tackle this problem,” he remarked.
Investment and Land Availability
Another critical point of discussion was the availability of land for industrial projects. Sarma noted a shortage of land despite the influx of investments into the state.
“Investments are beginning to flow into Assam, but we lack adequate land banks to support them,” he explained, comparing Assam's land banks of less than 10,000 bighas to the approximately eight lakh bighas available in states like Gujarat and Maharashtra.
“We also discussed the establishment of land banks for industrial setups,” he added.
Flood Management and Rehabilitation
The conference also covered the reconstruction of embankments and levees that were damaged in previous floods. Sarma mentioned that he chaired a separate meeting with Deputy Commissioners from Upper Assam's flood-affected districts, focusing on initiating the second phase of damage assessment for rehabilitation grants to families impacted by the floods.
Viksit Assam Initiative
Under the Viksit Assam initiative, the government plans to invest Rs 50,000 crore in various thematic areas, including schools, colleges, anganwadi centres, power lines, stadiums, and government infrastructure.
“We aim to invest Rs 50,000 crore in thematic areas under Viksit Assam, covering schools, colleges, anganwadi centres, power lines, stadiums, and other government infrastructure,” Sarma stated.
Discussions also revolved around the types of schemes to be implemented in each district.
Health Initiatives and Upcoming Events
The Chief Minister emphasized health as a major topic, particularly the TB-free India campaign, the establishment of new medical colleges, and the phased transformation of 4,000 sub-centres into hospitals, as outlined in the State Budget.
The upcoming Khel Maharan was also a topic of discussion during the conference.
Sarma announced a month-long “Sewa & Samarpan Diwas” program from September 17 to October 17, celebrating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 25 years in public service since he became Gujarat Chief Minister in 2001.
This program will feature quiz and speech competitions, along with a special event to honor anganwadi and mid-day meal workers, Sarma noted.
“A ‘Sewa Setu Camp’ will be launched at block headquarters in every district, where administrators will gather grassroots complaints and demands from the public,” he added.
Regular Conferences for District Issues
Sarma mentioned that such conferences with Deputy Commissioners are conducted every six months to identify and address issues across districts. “We strive to understand and resolve various challenges through these conferences,” he stated.
Concluding his three-day visit to Jorhat, the Chief Minister announced financial support of Rs 500 crore for Auniati University located in Koliapani, Teok.