In a significant stride towards fostering a self-reliant Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday launched the distribution of seed capital under the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA) to 5,155 women beneficiaries in the Jalukbari Legislative Assembly constituency.
Each recipient was presented with a cheque for Rs 10,000 at a function held at the Swahid Smarak Kshetra in Boragaon.
With this latest distribution, the State Government has successfully extended entrepreneurship support to over 2.93 million women across 119 constituencies. This initiative is part of a broader vision to transform women into “Lakhpati Baideus,” with the Government pledging subsequent instalments of Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000 based on the successful utilisation of initial funds, ultimately aiming for an annual income of Rs 1 lakh per beneficiary.
During the event, Sarma also unveiled seven digital portals designed to streamline and digitise the Panchayat and Rural Development Department. These include the “Sewa Setu” online trade license system, an e-office system for transparent digital file movement, and the “Kaushal Connect” mobile app, which links skilled youth with local household service requirements. Additionally, the Chief Minister released a two-volume compilation of his speeches, covering 100 key addresses delivered between May 2024 and March 2026.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised that financial independence for women is a cornerstone of the state’s economic mainstreaming.
He noted that beyond direct funding, the Government is committed to providing essential training and marketplace access.
In a major policy announcement, Sarma declared that 50 per cent of shops in upcoming Guwahati vending zones, those situated under flyovers, and units located in front of Government offices will be reserved exclusively for women.
The event was attended by Guwahati Municipal Corporation Mayor Mrigen Sarania, Additional Chief Secretary B Kalyan Chakravarty, Commissioner of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department Keerthi Jalli, Mission Director ASRLM Kuntal Moni Sarma Bordoli, Guwahati Municipal Corporation Commissioner Chinmoy Prakash Phukan, host of other dignitaries and women beneficiaries were present on the occasion.
“When women contribute financially, families manage their lives more smoothly and comfortably,” the Chief Minister stated. He further assured residents of Guwahati’s hill areas that the Government is expediting the issuance of land pattas to secure the rights of indigenous citizens.
Reflecting on the administrative progress, the Chief Minister highlighted that the retirement age for 30,000 employees in the Panchayat Department has been increased to 60 years, coupled with the introduction of health and accident insurance benefits.
The event was attended by Guwahati Municipal Corporation Mayor Mrigen Sarania, Additional Chief Secretary B Kalyan Chakravarty, Commissioner of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department Keerthi Jalli, Mission Director ASRLM Kuntal Moni Sarma Bordoli, Guwahati Municipal Corporation Commissioner Chinmoy Prakash Phukan, host of other dignitaries and women beneficiaries were present on the occasion.
