Assam Cabinet Focuses on Development, Clean Energy, and Prisoner Welfare

Guwahati: The Assam Cabinet, in a cabinet meeting held on December 7, 2024, at the Koinadhara State Guest House, made several key decisions aimed at fostering regional growth, promoting clean energy, and addressing prisoner welfare.

The Cabinet has approved the creation of a dedicated ‘Barak Valley Development Department’. This initiative aims to bring governance closer to the people of Barak Valley and ensure equitable growth across Cachar, Hailakandi, and Sribhumi districts.

The new department will accelerate development in the region and create job opportunities, particularly for support staff. This step underscores the government’s commitment to inclusivity and balanced progress in Assam.

In a significant move to promote clean energy, the Cabinet has approved a Production Linked Incentive of ₹2 per litre of ethanol. This subsidy will be provided for three years to ethanol manufacturing units using grain-based processes.

The initiative not only supports farmers by boosting their income but also aligns with India’s transition to cleaner fuel alternatives, reducing the carbon footprint.

The Cabinet introduced a compensation policy for the next of kin (NOK) of prisoners in cases of unnatural deaths. Families of deceased inmates will receive one-time financial support based on the cause of death.

Key provisions include:

– ₹2 lakh for deaths due to quarrels among prisoners.
– ₹3 lakh for deaths caused by torture or beating by prison staff.
– ₹4 lakh for deaths due to negligence by prison staff or medical officers.
– ₹3 lakh for suicides committed by prisoners.

This policy reflects the government’s focus on accountability and prisoner welfare.

The decisions taken by the Assam Cabinet mark a significant shift in governance, sustainability, and social welfare. These measures are expected to create lasting impacts on the development of Barak Valley, clean energy production, and support for affected families.

Also read: STF Assam Busts Drug Trafficking Ring in Balughat and Beltola