Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said the Assam government has upgraded infrastructure at 22,923 Mandirs and Namghars across the state, describing the initiative as part of a broader effort to strengthen cultural and spiritual institutions.

In a post on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the government has invested ₹433 crore to improve facilities at these religious centres, which play an important role in the social and cultural life of communities across Assam.

Sarma noted that temples and Namghars are not merely places of worship but also serve as community spaces that reflect the traditions and values of the region.

Namghars — traditional community prayer halls that emerged from the Neo-Vaishnavite movement led by 15th-century saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardeva — remain central to the socio-religious life of the state.

Apart from hosting prayer gatherings, Namghars also function as venues for cultural programmes, community meetings and social interaction in many villages and towns. These institutions have historically played a key role in preserving Assam’s spiritual traditions and fostering a sense of collective identity among local communities.

Renovation and infrastructure development

Officials said the development work includes renovation of existing structures, improvement of basic amenities and support for maintenance so that these institutions can continue serving devotees and local residents effectively.

The initiative has been implemented across several districts in both rural and urban areas. According to the state government, the programme forms part of broader efforts to preserve Assam’s cultural heritage while strengthening institutions that underpin the state’s traditional social life.