Guwahati (Assam) July 23: In a significant move aimed at empowering one of the state’s most vital workforces, the Assam Cabinet has approved the implementation of the ‘Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli Duti Paat’ scheme to support tea garden workers across the state.
The flagship welfare initiative, with a financial outlay of Rs 342 crore, is part of Assam’s year-long celebration marking 200 years of its tea industry. Under the scheme, a one-time financial assistance of Rs 5,000 will be provided to nearly seven lakh eligible tea garden workers, including both permanent and temporary staff.
To ensure efficiency and transparency, the funds will be directly transferred to the workers’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
“This is our humble tribute to the tea garden workers for their invaluable contribution to Assam’s identity and economy,” said Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He underscored the scheme’s role in enhancing social security and financial inclusion for the community.
CM Sarma Begins Upper Assam Tour to Monitor Projects
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sarma has embarked on a tour of Upper Assam to assess the progress of key government schemes. The visit is part of a broader effort to ensure timely implementation of welfare programmes in preparation for the 2026 Assembly elections.
Over the past few days, the Chief Minister has conducted review meetings with top officials to evaluate the effectiveness of various schemes across both rural and urban sectors. These reviews aim to identify challenges and accelerate developmental work.
Drought-like Conditions Grip Parts of Western Assam
During a press briefing following a recent cabinet meeting, CM Sarma also drew attention to the emerging drought-like situation in five western Assam districts—Kokrajhar, Barpeta, Dhubri, Baksa, and Bongaigaon. The India Meteorological Department and the Central Ground Water Board have reported a 40% deficit in monsoon rainfall in these areas.
“In response to the situation, the Revenue Department will soon declare these districts as drought-affected,” Sarma announced.
He further assured that farmers who insured their crops under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) would receive compensation for losses incurred due to the rainfall shortfall.
The Chief Minister also pointed out that several districts in eastern Assam have experienced erratic rainfall patterns, ranging from severe shortages to excesses, impacting agricultural stability in the region. (Edited)
