Hailakandi: The Central government has exhorted officials in the Hailakandi district of Assam to significantly ramp up the implementation of welfare schemes, underscoring a renewed impetus to accelerate progress under the ambitious Aspirational Districts Programme. The directive came during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, on Monday.
During the extensive session with local officials, Minister Bambhaniya meticulously scrutinised lagging indicators and identified underutilised opportunities across the district. The review encompassed a detailed assessment of various crucial initiatives spanning health, education, agriculture, rural livelihoods, and financial inclusion, aiming to identify bottlenecks and foster more effective delivery mechanisms.
Officials present at the meeting provided comprehensive updates on ongoing projects and delineated the hurdles impeding their progress. The Minister, in turn, stressed the imperative that government benefits must, without fail, reach the most disadvantaged sections of society. She called for immediate and decisive action to uplift socio-economic conditions and particularly emphasised leveraging Hailakandi’s rich natural assets—bamboo, betel nut, paddy, and tea—to foster income generation and local employment opportunities.
Further highlighting the critical need for seamless convergence across various government departments, Minister Bambhaniya urged officials to embrace innovation and cultivate deeper community involvement to surmount persistent systemic challenges. She also reassured the district administration of steadfast support from the central government, pledging assistance in resolving logistical issues and replicating successful practices observed elsewhere.
The Minister’s visit also included a crucial inspection of the Food Corporation of India’s paddy storage facility situated in Lalabazar, where she thoroughly reviewed operational efficiency and overall foodgrain management protocols. Deputy Commissioner Nisarga Hivary and the heads of various pivotal departments were present at the review meeting, actively participating in the discussions.
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