After the meeting, CM Sarma addressed the media, highlighting the cabinet’s commitment to a dignified government and inclusive development.
One of the most significant decisions made was the approval of the “Shradhanjali” initiative, which aims to ensure the dignified and well-organized repatriation of deceased Assamese individuals from other states. This program, scheduled to commence on October 1, 2025, is primarily designed to assist low-income workers and those who lose their lives in accidents or criminal incidents occurring outside the state. The Special Branch of the Assam Police will act as the nodal agency, with implementation overseen by a DIG-level officer. Families of the deceased will have the ability to communicate swiftly through a dedicated social media account and helpline (112).
In a bid to empower the Rabha community, the Cabinet sanctioned the formation of the Rabha Development Council for Rabha residents living outside the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) area. The Council will be responsible for implementing welfare programs aimed at enhancing the socioeconomic and cultural development of the community. Additionally, in compliance with Supreme Court directives, the Cabinet made a landmark decision to classify the transgender population as a Socially and Educationally Backward Class (SEBC). District Commissioners are responsible for verifying and issuing Transgender Identity Cards, with applicants required to provide proof of their original residency in Assam.
Furthermore, two significant wetlands in the Goalpara district, Urpad Beel (1256 hectares) and Hasila Beel (245 hectares), have been designated as Proposed Reserve Forests (PRFs) under the Assam Forest Regulation of 1891, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation. The public is invited to submit any concerns or suggestions regarding the announcement of Hasila Beel within a month.
In addition to enhancing welfare programs, the Cabinet has sanctioned an increase in the monthly honorarium for Cook-cum-Helpers under the PM POSHAN scheme from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000, resulting in a total monthly honorarium of Rs 2,000 starting in October of this year. In the field of education, the timeline will be moved forward by one year, with newly appointed teachers under the Special Recruitment Drive set to receive their first annual raise in July 2025.
In alignment with employment reforms, it was decided that experienced Anganwadi Workers would be prioritized for 50% of the Supervisor roles within the Women and Child Development Department, while the remaining positions will be filled through direct recruitment. The government has broadened its flagship “Apon Ghar” and “Apon Bahan” initiatives to include regular and qualified contractual workers in five key PSUs and societies, such as the National Health Mission and Samagra Shiksha Axom, to enhance housing and transportation support.
Concerning industry, the Cabinet adopted the Assam State Mineral Exploration Trust Rules, 2025, which regulate and promote the sustainable exploration of minor minerals Hinduja Renewables has been allocated land in West Karbi Anglong for a 900 MW pumped storage project, with an investment of Rs 5,400 crore, as part of a significant energy infrastructure initiative. This project is crucial for meeting Assam’s renewable energy objectives.
To improve access to quality education, the Cabinet has also approved the transfer of 40 bighas of government land for the establishment of a Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Chandrapur, Kamrup (Metro). To position Assam as a key player in sustainable and green economic development, the state will also establish a Rs 3,000 crore Assam Industrial and Green Growth Fund, supported by Rs 500 crore, to aid agro-tech, tourism, renewable energy, and start-ups.
