The 7th DC Conference, recently held in Guwahati, marked a significant step towards charting a strategic roadmap for Assam’s continued growth, with a particular focus on empowering districts as the core of administrative efficiency. Under the visionary leadership of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, the conference brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on critical issues and explore innovative solutions aimed at fostering inclusive development. By reinforcing the role of District Commissioners and enhancing their capacities, the conference underscored the importance of localised governance in driving Assam’s progress, ensuring that every district plays a pivotal role in the state’s overall development trajectory.
Introduction of District-Level GDP Measurement Model
The Government is set to introduce a new model for measuring and reporting district-level Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to enhance economic transparency and enable targeted development strategies. This model aims to provide a more granular analysis of economic activity, offering a clearer picture of each district’s contribution to the state’s overall economy. By incorporating localised data on various sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services, the new approach will help identify growth opportunities and disparities across districts. The move is expected to facilitate better resource allocation, informed policy-making, and more effective monitoring of economic progress at the grassroots level.
Operationalisation of Sub-Districts by October 2, 2024
By October 2, 2024, all sub-districts are set to become fully operational, marking a significant step in decentralised governance. District Commissioners (DCs) have been directed to maintain regular engagement with Guardian Ministers, who will function as the Chief Ministers (CMs) of their respective districts. This initiative aims to ensure that each district receives focused and effective governance. The DCs, acting as Chief Secretaries at the district level, will be responsible for implementing policies and initiatives in close coordination with the Guardian Ministers, thereby enhancing administrative efficiency and accountability.
Completion of Delimitation and Panchayat Elections by December 31
The ongoing delimitation process in Assam is set to be completed within the stipulated timeline, ensuring that the boundaries of constituencies are redrawn to reflect the latest population data and provide equitable representation. Following this, the state government has committed to conducting the Panchayat elections by December 31. This timeline underscores the administration’s dedication to upholding democratic processes and ensuring that local governance structures are promptly renewed and functional. The completion of delimitation and the subsequent Panchayat elections are critical steps toward enhancing grassroots democracy and empowering rural communities in Assam.
Enhanced Supervision of Government Projects by District Commissioners
District Commissioners (DCs) are directed to take an active role in supervising major Government projects, ensuring timely and effective implementation across their respective jurisdictions. This proactive approach includes regular field visits to monitor progress, address on-ground challenges, and facilitate seamless coordination between various stakeholders. By closely overseeing these projects, DCs will help maintain accountability, drive efficiency, and ensure that development initiatives align with the broader objectives of the Government, ultimately benefiting the local communities and contributing to the region’s overall growth.
Flood Relief Assistance through Direct Benefit Transfer by August 12
The Government has announced that flood relief assistance will be provided to affected individuals through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) by August 12. This initiative aims to ensure swift and efficient distribution of aid to those impacted by recent flooding, minimising delays and improving the accuracy of support delivery. Eligible beneficiaries will receive financial assistance directly into their bank accounts, facilitating immediate relief and helping to address urgent needs in the aftermath of the disaster.
Recognition of Achievers during District Day Celebrations
District Collectors (DCs) should take the initiative to recognise and honour individuals who have made significant achievements in various fields during occasions like District Day celebrations. This recognition not only motivates the achievers but also inspires others in the community to strive for excellence. By felicitating these individuals, DCs can foster a culture of appreciation and acknowledgement, highlighting the diverse talents and contributions within the district. Such gestures also strengthen the bond between the administration and the public, showcasing the district’s collective pride in its citizens’ accomplishments.
Moving Away from VIP Culture in Government Events
The District Commissioners (DCs) in Assam have been directed to move away from the VIP culture by keeping Government events modest and ensuring simple arrangements. This includes providing only vegetarian meals during such events, reflecting a commitment to simplicity and austerity in public functions. This step aligns with the State Government’s broader effort to foster humility and reduce unnecessary expenditures in official activities.
Proposal for Granting Land Pattas to Tea Garden Areas
The proposal for granting Land Pattas to tea garden areas and those residing in tea garden lines is a significant step towards ensuring land rights and social security for the tea garden communities. This initiative aims to provide legal ownership of land to these communities, which have long contributed to the state’s economy but often lacked formal land titles. By considering this proposal, the Government recognises the importance of empowering tea garden workers and their families, enhancing their living conditions, and securing their future. This move will not only boost the socio-economic status of the tea garden population but also foster a sense of belonging and stability, contributing to the overall development of the region.
Empowerment of Village Committees for Amrit Sarovar Construction
District Commissioners should empower Village Committees to construct Amrit Sarovars if they have the necessary capability and resources. This initiative should be strongly promoted to ensure widespread participation and effective implementation. To facilitate oversight and ensure the sustainability of these water bodies, a Log Book should be established and meticulously maintained. This logbook must be updated every three months to monitor water levels and document any changes or issues, thereby ensuring that the Amrit Sarovars remain functional and beneficial to the communities they serve.
Targets for Mustard Procurement by 2025
The Assam Government has set ambitious targets for mustard procurement, aiming to achieve these goals by 2025. To support this initiative, plans are being devised to strengthen mustard cultivation as a secondary crop. This involves enhancing agricultural practices, providing better support and resources to farmers, and ensuring efficient procurement systems. By focusing on these areas, the Government aims to boost mustard production, improve agricultural sustainability, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the region.
Engagement of Tea Garden Workers
To enhance productivity and support local economies, tea garden workers will be engaged in various tasks outside their traditional tea garden and block areas. This initiative aims to diversify their skill sets and provide additional income opportunities, contributing to community development and economic stability.
Verification of ASRLM Beneficiaries
The first level of verification for beneficiaries under the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission (ASRLM) is scheduled to be completed by August 31. Following this, a second level of scrutiny will ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of the beneficiary list, improving the effectiveness and reach of rural support programs.
Distribution of ABHA Cards
Efforts will be made to generate and distribute Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) cards to a maximum number of people. Additionally, ABHA registration will be made mandatory for private health institutions to ensure wider access to healthcare services and better tracking of health records.
Model Anganwadi Centres
Identifying land for the establishment of Model Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) is underway, with a target to complete 4,000 existing and 5,000 new Model AWCs by 2026. This expansion aims to enhance early childhood care and education across the region, improving overall child development outcomes.
Implementation of New EPOS Devices
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for new Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) devices and the completion of e-KYC processes in all tea gardens is to be implemented by August 30, 2024. This will ensure the effective execution of the Anna Sewa Din – National Food Security Act (NFSA) and streamline food distribution.
PM KISAN Beneficiary List Updates
Ineligible and untraceable beneficiaries will be removed from the PM KISAN list to ensure that the benefits are accurately targeted. This measure aims to improve the efficiency and fairness of the agricultural support program.
Issuance of Caste Certificates
To prevent misuse, caste certificates will only be issued to eligible beneficiaries. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of social welfare schemes and ensuring that support reaches those who genuinely qualify.
E-Services Portal Development
A comprehensive e-services portal will be developed to consolidate all Government services onto a single platform. This initiative is designed to simplify access to services, making them more user-friendly and efficient for the public.
Amrit Sarovars Video Documentation
Video documentation will be carried out for Amrit Sarovars located in forest areas that have positively impacted wildlife. This initiative will highlight the ecological benefits of these water bodies and support ongoing conservation efforts.
Mahila Udyamita Re-Verification
The selected list for Mahila Udyamita will be re-verified, with strict adherence to family size norms. This ensures that the program effectively supports women entrepreneurs who meet the criteria, fostering sustainable economic growth.
Waste Processing Emphasis
There will be a strong emphasis on both regular and legacy waste processing. This dual approach aims to enhance waste management practices, reduce environmental impact, and improve public health outcomes.
Bank Accounts for Tea Garden Wage Compensation
An SOP will be formulated for opening bank accounts under the Tea Garden Wage Compensation for Pregnant Women scheme. This will facilitate the efficient disbursement of benefits and support the financial well-being of pregnant women working in tea gardens.
Ration Card Beneficiaries
In response to urgent cases such as medical emergencies, including cancer patients, Deputy Commissioners (DCs) will now have the authority to recommend up to 100 beneficiaries for Ration Cards. This measure aims to streamline access to essential food supplies for those in critical need, ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive timely assistance during their most pressing times.
Addressing School Dropout Rates
Tackling school dropout rates will be prioritised to enhance educational outcomes across the state. This initiative will involve targeted interventions and support systems to retain students in the educational system, aiming to reduce dropout rates and improve overall student engagement and success.
Land Sale NOC Authority
The authority to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for land sales will be delegated to sub-districts under the Basundhara scheme. To facilitate this process, a dedicated app for e-Khazana services will be developed, providing a user-friendly platform for managing land transactions and ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Alternative AWC Models
For areas with limited land availability, alternative models for Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) will be explored. This will include innovative approaches to constructing and managing these centres, ensuring that essential services for young children and mothers are accessible even in space-constrained regions.
Paddy Procurement Schedule
The procurement of paddy is scheduled to commence in November this year. This timely initiation is designed to support farmers and streamline the procurement process, ensuring that paddy is collected efficiently and that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.
Immunisation and Child Marriage Prevention
Steps will be taken to address immunisation resistance and to identify and prevent occurrences of child marriage. These measures will include community awareness programs and targeted interventions to ensure comprehensive immunisation coverage and to safeguard children from early marriage.
Farmer Payment Cycle
An SOP will be formulated to reduce the payment cycle to farmers to 48 hours. This initiative aims to accelerate the processing and disbursement of payments for paddy procurement, thereby providing financial relief and enhancing farmers’ trust in the procurement system.
Homestay Requirements and Portal Development
The requirements for homestays in all districts will be assessed to boost tourism. A dedicated portal, the Assam Homestay Portal, will be developed to facilitate the booking and management of homestays, making it easier for tourists to find and reserve accommodations while promoting local hospitality.
ODOP Exhibition
The One District One Product (ODOP) Exhibition will be held at the Khanapara Veterinary Ground Playground before Durga Puja 2024. This exhibition will showcase local products from each district, providing a platform for regional artisans and businesses to display their goods and attract attention from buyers and tourists.
Land Settlement Digitisation
The settlement of lands allocated to non-individual entities such as schools, temples, and namghars will be digitised. An interface will be created to manage land acquired from Devottar and religious institutions, streamlining land management and ensuring transparency in land allocations.
Mission Basundhara 3.0
Rejected applications from Mission Basundhara 2.0 will be reviewed and reconsidered in Mission Basundhara 3.0. The updated scheme will operate continuously, with cases being processed and disposed of regularly to ensure timely resolution and effective land management.
Delegation of Routine Administrative Works
To streamline administrative processes and enhance efficiency, routine tasks such as land sale permissions, fund management, and ration card entries will be delegated to sub-district authorities. This decentralisation aims to reduce bottlenecks and expedite service delivery, ensuring that essential services reach citizens in a timely and efficient manner.
Conversion of Non-Forest Lands
In a bid to optimise land use, all lands classified as non-forest will be converted into revenue land. This policy shift is designed to make productive use of available land resources, facilitating agricultural and developmental activities that contribute to economic growth and community welfare.
Completion of Adarsh Gram Yojana Projects
All pending works under the Adarsh Gram Yojana must be completed by December 31. District Commissioners (DCs) are tasked with preparing a comprehensive Village Development Plan for the next four years, with mandatory consultations involving the local MLA. This approach ensures that development plans are aligned with community needs and legislative support.
Survey for AgriStack Initiative
A critical survey for the AgriStack initiative is to be completed within 45 days starting from August 16. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural data management and technology integration, improving productivity and efficiency in the agricultural sector through comprehensive and timely data collection.
Orunodoi 3.0 Aadhar Seeding Requirement
For the implementation of Orunodoi 3.0, it is mandatory for beneficiaries to have Aadhar-seeded ration cards. This requirement ensures that assistance reaches the intended recipients accurately and helps in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the scheme.
Distribution of NoCs for AMFIRS Beneficiaries
No Objection Certificates (NoCs) for beneficiaries of the Assam Micro Finance Institutions and Rural Self Employment Schemes (AMFIRS) will be distributed on September 2 and 3, 2024. This distribution is a crucial step in facilitating beneficiaries’ access to financial support and furthering their entrepreneurial and self-employment endeavours.
Nijut Moina Scheme Distribution
The forms and booklets for the Nijut Moina Scheme are scheduled for distribution by August 14. This initiative aims to provide essential information and support to beneficiaries, ensuring they are well-informed and equipped to avail themselves of the benefits offered by the scheme.
SLRC Exam Answer Keys and Objections
For the upcoming State Level Recruitment Commission (SLRC) exam, answer keys will be uploaded within 20 days post-exam. Candidates will have the opportunity to raise objections, ensuring transparency and fairness in the examination process, and providing a platform for addressing any discrepancies.
Formation of Selection Committees
Three selection committees will be constituted at the district level to oversee the implementation of the Chief Minister’s Agricultural Assistance and Allied Activities (CMAAA) and PM Vishwakarma schemes. These committees will ensure the effective and efficient execution of these important programs, tailored to the specific needs of each district.
Driving Training Institutes and Automatic Tracks
The establishment of driving training institutes and automatic driving tracks at the district level will be prioritised. This initiative aims to improve road safety and enhance driving skills among the population, contributing to better traffic management and reduced accidents.
Border Area Surveillance and Checkpoints
Strict surveillance and maintenance of checkpoints in border areas will be enforced. This measure is crucial for ensuring security, preventing illegal activities, and maintaining the integrity of border regions, thereby safeguarding national interests.
Aadhar Centres at Institutional Delivery Points
To enhance accessibility, Aadhar Centres will be established at institutional delivery points. This initiative will facilitate the issuance and updation of Aadhar cards for new parents and their children, improving administrative efficiency and service delivery at critical junctures.
District Health Society Meetings
Regular meetings of the District Health Society will be held to review and address health-related issues and initiatives. These meetings will serve as a platform for coordinating health services, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare to the community.
The 7th DC Conference in Guwahati, under the leadership of HCM Himanta Biswa Sarma, has laid a comprehensive roadmap for Assam’s growth by empowering districts as the bedrock of development. The conference’s focus on decentralisation, enhanced supervision, and localised governance marks a significant shift towards more efficient and inclusive development. Initiatives like the introduction of district-level GDP measurement, operationalisation of sub-districts, completion of delimitation and Panchayat elections, and numerous other targeted interventions reflect the Government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, social equity, and administrative transparency across Assam.
By empowering District Commissioners and ensuring their close coordination with Guardian Ministers, the Assam government is driving a transformative agenda that aims to uplift every district and, by extension, the entire state. The roadmap presented at the conference is a testament to the Government’s vision of a developed, self-reliant Assam, where progress is measured not just in numbers but in the well-being and empowerment of its people. As these initiatives take root, Assam is poised to achieve new milestones in its journey toward sustainable and inclusive growth.
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