Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, announced a series of ambitious promises during recent public rallies ahead of BJP candidates' nominations for the upcoming elections in Nagaon and Darrang-Udalguri constituencies.
Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, announced a series of ambitious promises during recent public rallies ahead of BJP candidates' nominations for the upcoming elections in Nagaon and Darrang-Udalguri constituencies. Among the pledges, Sarma announced the state government's commitment to providing education for girls up to the postgraduate level. Additionally, families holding ration cards would benefit from government-funded life insurance schemes.
Previously, girls passing their class 10 exams received cycles or scooters, but Sarma's announcement introduced a new initiative. Starting this year, Rs 10,000 would be deposited into their bank accounts over two years while they pursue their class 12 studies. Upon completing class 12, girls would receive Rs 12,500 for college admission, with those opting for postgraduate studies eligible for Rs 25,000.
Sarma emphasized the significance of educating girls, stating, "Parents will educate their sons, but Mama, as he is called by youngsters in the state, will educate the girls." He also highlighted existing benefits for ration card holders, including free rice, Ujjala gas connections, and Ayushman Bharat health cards. Additionally, post-election, the head of the family would receive government-paid life insurance, while women members would benefit from the 'Orunodoi' scheme.
Although refraining from financial announcements due to the election Model Code of Conduct, Sarma assured the implementation of promises post-election. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing peace and prosperity to previously troubled areas like Udalguri. Sarma pledged to announce 50,000 more jobs after the elections, underscoring the BJP government's track record of job creation and commitment to driving regional development.
In his address, Sarma stressed the importance of both central and state BJP governance for Assam's development. He expressed confidence that with Modi as Prime Minister, Assam would progress towards peace and development, positioning itself as a leading state in the country. Sarma's remarks were made during his attendance at the nomination filings of BJP candidates Suresh Bora in Nagaon and sitting BJP MP Dilip Saikia in Darrang-Udalguri.
Regarding the opposition Congress party, Sarma dismissed its relevance, likening it to an old currency note with no value in the market. He urged voters not to support the Congress, asserting its incapacity to address the needs of the people. The second phase of polls will also cover Karimganj, Silchar (SC), and Diphu (ST) constituencies.