Guwahati: In a strong show of solidarity with the armed forces, the Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has decided to implement a series of austerity measures. This decision comes amidst the prevailing situation, although a later development saw India and Pakistan agree to cease all military action.
Chief Minister Sarma, addressing a press conference marking his four years in office, stated that the state cabinet has resolved to adopt several cost-cutting measures. These include the cancellation of all seminars, conferences, workshops, and commemorative events. This move underscores the state’s commitment to standing alongside the armed forces during these times.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Sarma announced a comprehensive outreach program to support the families of soldiers from Assam. Over the next week, district officials will be tasked with identifying these families, forming support groups, and providing them with all possible assistance. The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s intention to ensure that soldiers on the front lines can focus on their duty without worrying about the well-being of their loved ones back home.
Recognizing the significant presence of army and air force camps in Assam and other northeastern states and the ongoing troop movements, Chief Minister Sarma has directed district commissioners to maintain close contact with military officials. This coordination aims to facilitate the smooth movement and logistical support required by the defense forces. The cabinet has also decided to activate coordination mechanisms at both district and state levels to ensure uninterrupted transit for defense personnel and convoys.
In a parallel effort to maintain essential civic services, district commissioners and superintendents of police have been instructed to intensify coordination among civil, police, and emergency service wings. Chief Minister Sarma also made a fervent appeal to the people of Assam to uphold communal harmony, emphasizing that individuals of all faiths serve in the armed forces. He urged citizens to refrain from any actions or statements that could negatively impact their morale, highlighting the unity within the forces and the need to resist divisive attempts.
The state cabinet has further resolved to ensure the readiness of the healthcare system. Hospitals and health institutions will maintain an updated registry of voluntary blood donors, particularly those with rare blood groups. Additionally, fuel and medical inventories in hospitals will be reviewed to guarantee adequate supplies for any potential emergencies.
To further exemplify austerity, ministers and government officials will refrain from undertaking foreign travel or non-essential outstation tours. Officers have also been directed to avoid unofficial travel and remain within their designated place of posting unless explicitly permitted. In case of necessity, government employees currently on leave, excluding maternity and medical leave, may be recalled to duty with a 24-hour notice. All government departments and institutions are expected to demonstrate exemplary discipline, efficiency, and austerity, reflecting the state’s collective solidarity.
Additional austerity measures approved by the cabinet include a halt on the procurement of vehicles (except for police requirements), furniture, and office infrastructure. Working lunches, official dinners, cultural functions, and entertainment expenses are to be avoided. Large gatherings and physical meetings will be postponed or shifted to virtual platforms unless they pertain to essential services. All seminars, workshops, commemorative events, conferences involving expenditure, and ceremonies will be deferred, while non-essential training programs or exposure visits involving travel will be rescheduled. The production of printing, publicity material, advertisements, and audio-visual content will be limited to strictly necessary public information.
In a final directive, Chief Minister Sarma announced that no processions by victorious candidates of the recently concluded panchayat polls will be permitted following the announcement of results on Sunday. This decision is in line with the overall austerity measures and the prevailing sensitive situation.
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