Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a significant policy shift, permitting inter-religious land transfers under state supervision. The decision marks a departure from last year’s ban, which was imposed due to concerns over communal sensitivities. Addressing the media, CM Sarma said, “Assam is a sensitive state, and our priority is to maintain communal harmony. While we had earlier restricted land transfers between religious communities, we have now allowed such transactions, provided they receive prior approval from the state government. This will ensure a thorough review of each case to prevent potential disputes and misuse.”
Beyond land reforms, the Chief Minister outlined his government’s broader economic vision, reaffirming its commitment to uplifting the poor and middle class while positioning Assam as a leader in development. He highlighted several major budgetary measures, including the introduction of proton beam therapy, a cutting-edge cancer treatment technology that aims to make Assam a hub for medical tourism. In a landmark step toward disaster management, Assam is set to collaborate with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to launch its own satellite. Given the state’s vulnerability to annual floods, this satellite will provide real-time data to improve early warning systems and disaster response.
The state is also venturing into the digital entertainment sector by developing its own Over-the-Top (OTT) platform, aimed at fostering regional content creation and boosting Assam’s film and media industry. This initiative is expected to provide a new platform for local artists and filmmakers while expanding the digital economy in the region. Highlighting Assam’s accelerated infrastructure development, CM Sarma revealed a massive surge in capital expenditure, which has risen from Rs 3,000 crore a decade ago to Rs 25,000 crore this year. This increased investment underscores the government’s commitment to improving public welfare, infrastructure, and employment opportunities across the state.