Assam Cabinet Approves Key Decisions to Drive Sustainable Growth and Development

Guwahati: In a landmark meeting, the Assam Cabinet approved several forward-looking policies and initiatives aimed at promoting agroforestry, boosting rural development, attracting investments, ensuring planned urbanization, and utilizing advanced technologies for state development. These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth while addressing environmental sustainability and social equity.

The Cabinet approved the Assam Agroforestry Policy, 2024, which aims to integrate tree cultivation into agricultural practices to address climate change, enhance forest cover, and boost farmers’ incomes. The policy emphasizes the establishment of agroforestry as a key component of the state’s agricultural strategy.

Key Features of the Policy:

– Strengthening the State Agroforestry Board to oversee implementation.
– Establishing a Quality Planting Material (QPM) Supply Chain to support farmers.
– Promoting tree cultivation on marginal and small landholdings, as well as in wastelands and underutilized lands.
– Developing a robust ecosystem for tree-based industries to reduce dependence on imported wood.
– Simplifying regulatory frameworks and introducing credit and insurance facilities for farmers.
– Setting up an Assam Agroforestry Science & Policy Council to drive research and innovation.

This initiative is expected to create a sustainable rural economy by addressing the challenges of small-scale farmers while increasing tree coverage outside forests.

The Cabinet has sanctioned 94 projects worth ₹70.3332 crore under the Soil Conservation and Agriculture sectors. These initiatives are designed to boost rural development by enhancing water management and irrigation facilities.

Highlights of the Projects:

– Implementation of 60 soil conservation projects.
– Installation of 34 Solar Shallow Tubewell Minor Irrigation Projects.
– Execution of schemes through NABARD’s RIDF-XXX program to ensure efficient financing and timely completion.

These measures aim to enhance agricultural productivity, address water scarcity issues, and uplift the rural economy.

To attract investments and strengthen infrastructure development, the Assam Cabinet approved the Assam Investment and Infrastructure Summit, scheduled for February 24–25, 2025. The summit will be graced by the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is expected to showcase Assam as a prime investment destination.

The Assam State Space Application Centre (ASSAC) has been designated as the State Nodal Agency for policy support in remote sensing and geospatial technologies. This approval aligns with the state’s objective to enhance developmental planning using cutting-edge space technology.

Key Objectives:

– Provide support for GIS, GPS, UAV/Drone Surveys.
– Facilitate data-sharing and standardization under the PM Gati Shakti Program.
– Collaborate with national stakeholders like ISRO, NESAC, and DOS for scientific and technical advancement.
– Enhance cost efficiency and reduce time overruns in major developmental projects.

ASSAC’s expanded role will significantly benefit key sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.

To support the state’s urban reform agenda, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Assam Unified Building Construction (Regulation) Byelaws, 2022. These amendments aim to ensure sustainable urban growth through innovative building regulations.

Notable Amendments:

– Increased Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to encourage vertical growth.
– Introduction of hazard maps to improve safety standards.
– Promotion of energy-efficient and fire-safe building practices.
– Enhanced landscaping measures to boost groundwater recharge.

These reforms are set to transform Assam’s urban landscape, creating livable and sustainable cities.

The Cabinet also facilitated reforms in the electoral process by approving the amendment of Rule 12 of the Assam Panchayat (Constitution) Rules, 1995. This measure ensures the alignment of Panchayat electoral rolls with the Representation of People Act, 1951, promoting fair and inclusive elections.

These transformative decisions by the Assam Cabinet reflect a balanced approach to economic, environmental, and technological advancement. With policies addressing agroforestry, rural development, investment promotion, remote sensing, and urban reforms, Assam is poised to achieve sustainable growth while ensuring equity and inclusivity for all its citizens.

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