Kokrajhar– In a landmark address during the ongoing Budget session of the Assam Assembly, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the state government aimed at the all-around development of Assam.
This session, being held in Kokrajhar for the first time outside the state capital, marked a historic moment in Assam’s political landscape.
Expressing his delight at the sitting being hosted in a region beyond the state capital, the Governor stated that such measures help in bringing people together and strengthening democratic processes. “This session marks a pivotal opportunity to reflect on our journey, deliberate on the challenges, and chart a visionary roadmap for the future of our beloved state,” said Acharya.
The Governor went on to emphasize the government’s commitment to reviving Assam’s past glory while building a future that blends history with progress, ensuring dignity and prosperity for all.
He pointed out that the state has been on a steady upward economic trajectory with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.6%, as well as an impressive increase in tax revenue collection by 25% during 2022-23 and a further 15% rise in 2023-24.
Acharya underscored that the state’s rising income has positively impacted its economic landscape, with all government departments working in close coordination to sustain and enhance this growth momentum. He cited the upcoming semiconductor industry in Jagiroad, a modern fertilizer plant under the Brahmaputra Valley Fertiliser Corporation Ltd, and the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit later this month as key initiatives set to propel Assam’s economic development.
“With progressive policies, a strategic location, and an investment-friendly ecosystem, Assam is set to drive India’s next wave of industrial transformation and establish itself as a global economic powerhouse,” Acharya added.
The Governor also celebrated several key achievements, including the recognition of Assamese as a classical language, the Charaideo Moidams being granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and Assam’s ranking among the top global destinations by The New York Times.
Alongside economic development, the Governor touched on various initiatives aimed at women and youth empowerment, improving sectors such as agriculture, health, education, sanitation, and urban development, as well as efforts for rural development and public service delivery. He also stressed the government’s focus on the welfare of regions like the Bodoland Territorial Region, Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, and North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council.
Acharya highlighted the Dibrugarh accorded the status of a second capital and the creation of the Barak Valley Development Department as steps toward ensuring balanced regional development.
“Our transparent ways of governance have made us responsible and responsive to the ever-changing needs of our times. I would like to reiterate in unequivocal terms that my government is firmly committed to developing all regions of the state and empowering all sections,” the Governor remarked.
However, the Governor’s speech did not go without challenge. Independent MLA Gogoi raised concerns over the state’s increasing debt burden, questioning the government’s economic growth claims. Gogoi also sought clarification on the outcomes of the Advantage Assam 1.0 summit, which he argued had failed to deliver on its promises, and pointed out that the Governor’s speech did not mention the complete implementation of the BTR Accord.
As Gogoi aired his grievances, Speaker Biswajit Daimary intervened, urging him to allow the Governor to complete his speech and directing him to raise his concerns during later proceedings of the House.
With the Budget session continuing, the political discourse surrounding the development of Assam and its future trajectory promises to intensify as the state prepares for the challenges ahead.
Read More: Gaurav Gogoi Hits Back at Himanta Biswa Sarma, Accuses CM of Election Fears