Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a new initiative aimed at combating child marriage in the state, with a 30-day enforcement campaign set to commence on November 1. This campaign will see the Assam Police intensifying their efforts to address the issue and take legal action against those who engage in or facilitate child marriage.

During his address at the state’s Independence Day celebrations in Guwahati on August 15, Sarma stressed that the state has made significant progress in reducing the prevalence of child marriage. He highlighted that Assam has unique commitments in this regard, asserting that it serves as a national model for tackling the issue.

The Chief Minister reported that, over the past five years, there have been 12,196 registered cases of child marriage in Assam, with 11,099 arrests made in connection with these offences. He indicated that the efforts to combat child marriage have led to improved educational enrolment for girls in colleges and universities across the state.

Infrastructure Investments Announced

In addition to the crackdown on child marriage, Sarma revealed plans for a substantial infrastructure investment programme in Assam. The state government has earmarked Rs 1.5 lakh crore for infrastructure development between 2026 and 2031. This funding will be allocated to various sectors such as roads, schools, urbanisation, and rural development.

As part of the long-term Viksit Assam 2047 initiative, the state will contribute Rs 50,000 crore from its own resources for capital works. The Chief Minister also stated that the government plans to attract an additional Rs 1 lakh crore in capital investment from the Central Government, thus raising the total anticipated investment to Rs 1.5 lakh crore over the next five years.

Sarma further elaborated on the state’s commitment to infrastructure development by stating that a comprehensive development programme would significantly benefit the citizens of Assam. He reiterated this vision during his Independence Day speech, underscoring the importance of sustainable growth and progress in the state.

Additional Announcements Made

During the address, Sarma introduced various initiatives aimed at enhancing governance and youth empowerment. He disclosed the launch of Mission Sadbhavana 2 on October 2, which is intended to clear pending applications in the state government, thereby improving the efficiency of governance.

The Chief Minister also announced the establishment of a dedicated Youth Development and Empowerment Department, emphasizing that the government is focused on the welfare of the younger generation in Assam. He stated that the youth represent the future of the state and deserve significant attention and resources.

In further developments, Sarma revealed plans for Mission Basundhara 4.0, scheduled for launch in December, aimed at land reforms. He declared that only residents with three generations of lineage in specified areas would be permitted to buy or sell land, further reinforcing community ties.

Additionally, Sarma declared a budget allocation of Rs 100 crore for Cotton College to commemorate its 125-year anniversary and announced measures to address polygamy among government employees, stating that those found involved would face salary deductions as a consequence. The establishment of eight new co-districts was also part of the announcements made during the speech.

Sarma’s address contextualised these initiatives within the broader theme of social reform, governance, and development priorities for Assam as the state celebrated its 80th Independence Day alongside the rest of the nation.

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