Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Inaugurates New Secretariat in Dibrugarh, Announces Major State Reforms

Desk Report, September 06, 2024: Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the new Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Dibrugarh, signaling a significant milestone for the state’s administrative machinery. The inauguration marked the commencement of his official duties from the new office. In his first address from the Secretariat, Dr. Sarma announced several crucial decisions affecting state governance, infrastructure, education, and land management.

One of the first orders announced was the declaration of a paid holiday for ‘Karam Puja’ on September 14, 2024, demonstrating the government’s acknowledgment of cultural traditions. In addition, formal communication letters were dispatched to the Union Finance Minister, addressing the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), and to the Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas regarding pressing hydrocarbon-related concerns.

In a bid to enhance Assam’s cultural heritage, Dr. Sarma revealed that the Assam State Museum Management Society had been constituted. This move aligns with the government’s mission to safeguard the state’s rich cultural legacy through effective museum management and heritage preservation.

Furthering the state’s digital ambitions, the Chief Minister emphasized the role of Information Technology in governance by approving the engagement of IT companies through an open and fair bidding process. The initiative focuses on developing a cutting-edge digital application for Sewa Setu, aimed at streamlining and improving citizen services across Assam.

The healthcare sector also received a major boost with the approval of ₹10.48 crore for the construction of 29 paying cabins at Diphu Medical College and Hospital. This move is set to enhance healthcare infrastructure, making it more accessible and modernized.

The continuity of Dr. Nani Gopal Mahanta as the Chairman of Adarsh Vidyalaya Sangathan was another key decision, reinforcing the government’s commitment to promoting quality education in the state.

On the administrative front, the Chief Minister authorized the transfer of District Commissioners across 19 districts in Assam, ensuring a dynamic reshuffling for improved governance. Among other appointments, a new SDPO and OC were posted to Dhakukhana, while a new SDO (Civil) and ADC were assigned to Sivasagar.

Former Member of Parliament Shri Narayan Chandra Borkataky was appointed as the Vice Chancellor of the State Innovation and Transformation Aayog (SITA), highlighting the state’s focus on innovation and transformation in governance.

The Chief Minister also announced intensified efforts to prevent illegal immigration along Assam’s international borders. This measure is part of the state’s larger security framework to ensure the safety and sovereignty of its borders.

In addition, the Public Works Department (B&NH) saw the transfer of 17 Assistant Engineers and three Junior Engineers to improve project execution and infrastructure development across the state.

To protect culturally significant areas, the government has imposed a ban on land sale permissions within a 5 km radius of Batadrava Than in Nagaon and Majuli districts. This restriction, effective for 45 days, prohibits new land registrations in these areas, aiming to curb unauthorized sales and preserve the heritage sites.

New guidelines on the use of social media platforms by government departments were also approved, ensuring that official communication is streamlined and adheres to regulatory standards.

In a noteworthy legal reform, the government approved the insertion of Chapter XII in the Assam Land Revenue Regulation Act (ALRR) of 1886, reinforcing its commitment to efficient land administration.

The Chief Minister concluded by announcing that he would hoist the National Flag in Dibrugarh during the Republic Day celebrations in 2025, further emphasizing the significance of the new Secretariat in Dibrugarh.

With these key decisions, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s administration has demonstrated its commitment to advancing Assam’s administrative efficiency, infrastructure, and cultural preservation. The inauguration of the Dibrugarh Secretariat marks a pivotal step in enhancing state governance and service delivery.

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