Guwahati – The Assam Cabinet on Saturday approved raising a ₹115.11 crore loan from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to accelerate infrastructure and road development projects in the hill and industrial districts of Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong, North Cachar Hills, and Tinsukia, Public Health Engineering Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah said.

Briefing the media after the cabinet meeting, Baruah said the loan will fast-track ongoing development projects, particularly focusing on roads and essential civic infrastructure in regions that have historically faced developmental constraints due to difficult terrain and limited connectivity. The infusion of funds is expected to significantly improve mobility, enhance trade and industry, and promote socio-economic growth in these districts.

In addition to infrastructure funding, the cabinet approved amendments to the Assam Police Manual, allowing both armed and unarmed branch personnel to appear for promotions to the rank of Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI). This reform is intended to ensure merit-based advancement and improve efficiency within the state police force, while also promoting motivation among officers.

The cabinet also cleared the settlement of 732 proposals for government khas and ceiling surplus land in Kamrup district under Mission Basundhara 3.0, benefitting indigenous and landless families for homestead purposes. Furthermore, 168 proposals under Mission Basundhara 2.0 were approved for settlement of government land in the same district after payment of the applicable settlement premium. These initiatives aim to provide secure land tenure, encourage housing investment, and improve access to basic civic amenities for beneficiaries.

Significant amendments were also approved to the Assam Land and Revenue Regulation, 1886, enabling digital hearings, electronic submissions, and technology-driven service delivery. According to Baruah, this move will reduce case pendency, enhance transparency, and provide legal sanctity to electronic proceedings. The reforms are aligned with the National Incentive Framework, allowing Assam to avail incentives of up to ₹150 crore for improved governance and digital service delivery.

In a bid to boost cultural and religious tourism, the cabinet approved the allotment of land at Amerigog village in Sonapur to Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam, which is expected to develop as a major spiritual and cultural hub in the Northeast, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

The cabinet also approved measures for Assam Bhawan staff welfare. Eight contractual employees at Assam Bhawan, Mumbai, who provide essential support to critically ill cancer patients, will be formally absorbed. Additionally, the post of Liaison Officer at Assam Bhawan, New Delhi, will be temporarily upgraded to Senior Liaison Officer, allowing in situ promotion of Abha Lohia, whose husband was killed in a terrorist attack and who is currently serving as liaison officer.

Through these measures, the Assam government aims to promote holistic development, combining infrastructure, policing reforms, digital governance, land rights, cultural tourism, and welfare initiatives, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to inclusive growth and citizen-centric governance in the state.