The Assam Cabinet on June 22 approved the formation of the Rabha Development Council. This newly approved council will work for the welfare of Rabha communities residing outside the jurisdiction of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC). The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Addressing the media after the meeting, the Chief Minister said the government had earlier announced the proposal and that the Cabinet has now given its formal approval.
“We had earlier announced the formation of a development council for Rabha people who live beyond the RHAC area. Today, the Cabinet has given its formal nod. The Rabha Development Council will be dedicated to the welfare and upliftment of these communities,” said Sarma.The Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), which currently functions as a statutory body, caters only to Rabha people living within its notified boundaries. However, many Rabha families live in other districts and regions of Assam where they have not received the same level of targeted developmental support.
The new Rabha Development Council seeks to bridge this gap. It will focus on improving the socio-economic condition of these communities through various developmental schemes. The council is expected to promote education, provide economic assistance, and support cultural preservation efforts to keep Rabha heritage alive.