GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma used the state’s Independence Day celebrations at Khanapara to present a broader vision for Assam, focusing on economic growth, peace, employment, infrastructure and social welfare.
Addressing the gathering, Sarma said Assam was increasingly developing its own model of growth rather than depending solely on examples from other states. He said the government’s focus was to build an environment where young people could pursue careers within Assam and where investors and businesses from outside the state would see Assam as an attractive destination.
The Chief Minister pointed to the state’s economic expansion, saying Assam’s economy had almost tripled over the past decade. He linked the growth to the government’s ability to undertake major infrastructure and development projects, including new industrial investments and improved road connectivity.
Sarma also highlighted the emergence of semiconductor manufacturing in Assam and cited the Baihata Chariali–Tezpur four-lane highway as an important connectivity project. According to him, such infrastructure would strengthen internal connectivity and improve Assam’s links with neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh.
Among the initiatives discussed were increased MLA Area Development funds, a proposed satellite city near Guwahati airport and the expansion of the Assam Police emergency response system, including round-the-clock vehicle availability under the 112 service.
Women’s welfare also featured prominently in the Chief Minister’s address. Sarma said the government was considering a mechanism under which 20 per cent of the salary of a government employee who abandons his first wife without obtaining a legal divorce could be transferred to her bank account, subject to an application by the woman. He said similar legal protection could also be considered for women abandoned by employees in the private sector.
On social issues, Sarma reiterated Assam’s determination to curb child marriage, stressing that the practice can deprive children of education, childhood and future opportunities. He called for sustained efforts to protect the younger generation.
Reflecting on Assam’s history, the Chief Minister remembered Swargadeo Chao Lung Sukapha and his role in shaping a tradition of integration and coexistence in the Brahmaputra Valley. He noted that 2028 would mark 800 years since Sukapha’s arrival in Assam.
Sarma also praised Assam’s sporting talent, citing Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain and badminton player Asmita Chaliha as examples of athletes who have demonstrated that young people from the state can compete successfully at the highest levels.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister said Assam’s development agenda extended beyond economic and physical infrastructure. He stressed the need to ensure dignity, employment opportunities, women’s empowerment, better rural connectivity and a sense of hope across communities, while calling for continued unity, social harmony and patriotism.
