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GUWAHATI: In a significant move, the Assam Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has taken several important steps that promise to reshape various aspects of life in the state. These decisions, announced after a recent Cabinet meeting, cover education, transportation, and cultural initiatives.
Merging of Education Boards In a major educational reform, the Assam Cabinet has decided to merge the (AHSEC) and the Board of Secondary Education, Assam (SEBA), forming the new Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB). This step aims to streamline the education system in Assam and provide a more unified and efficient structure for school education.
Next Budget Session Date Set Tourism Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah revealed that the next budget session of the state is scheduled to begin on February 5, 2024. An official notification from the Governor is expected soon, which will formalize this announcement.
Encouraging Electric Vehicle Usage In a move towards environmental sustainability, the Cabinet has decided to reduce the registration fees for electric vehicles (EVs) from the existing ten percent to eight percent. This is a part of the state's efforts to encourage the adoption of EVs among the populace and will be available until March 2025.
Holiday for Mising Festival Celebrating the cultural diversity of Assam, the Cabinet has declared a holiday in ten districts under the Mising Autonomous Council (MAC) during the Ali Ai Ligang festival. This decision highlights the government's recognition and respect for the cultural practices of the Mising community.
Formation of Khasi-Jaintia Development Council The government has allowed the creation of the Khasi-Jaintia Development Council. This step will focus on the development of the Khasi-Jaintia people residing in the Barak Valley and the hill districts of Assam.
Recognition for the Biate Community The state government will approach the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs with a proposal to recognize the Biate community as a separate Scheduled Tribe (ST) community, moving away from their current categorization under 'Kuki tribes, including Biates'.
Facilities for Ward Commissioners In a significant administrative decision, the Cabinet has agreed to provide government-nominated ward commissioners in urban local bodies with the same facilities as elected commissioners, barring the right to vote.
Anna Sewa Saptah Date Change The dates for the Anna Sewa Saptah under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) have been changed to the 1st to the 10th of every month, a shift from the earlier 10th to 16th schedule.
Land Pattas for Indigenous People The Cabinet has decided to distribute land pattas to 3,576 indigenous people across nine districts as part of the Basundhara 2.0 scheme. This move is expected to secure land rights and boost the livelihoods of indigenous communities.
Support for Raax Leela In a boost to cultural activities, the state government will provide financial assistance of Rs 25,000 each to committees organizing Raax Leela for the next three years. There are approximately 1,900 such committees in Assam, and this support is expected to help preserve and promote this traditional cultural event.
These decisions reflect the Assam government's commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure, supporting cultural diversity, and fostering sustainable practices in the state.