GUWAHATI: The Union Budget 2024 has brought significant allocations and initiatives for Assam, focusing on welfare, infrastructure, and regional development. Here are the key highlights:
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1. Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSPY): An allocation of ₹1,000 crore has been earmarked for the welfare of tea workers, with a special focus on women.
2. Increase in Special Package for Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC): The special package for BTC has been increased to ₹174.66 crore, up from ₹100 crore last year, to foster regional development.
3. Development of Tea Board: The budget outlay for the Tea Board has seen an increase, rising more than five times from ₹135 crore to ₹721.50 crore.
4. Outlay for Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region: A budget outlay of ₹5,900 crore has been allocated to the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region to focus on the region's growth.
5. Flood Assistance for Assam: Specific provisions have been made for comprehensive flood assistance, addressing the perennial issue of flooding in the state.
6. Expansion of India Post Payments Bank: 100 additional branches of India Post Payments Bank are set to be opened across the North East.
7. Assam’s Share of Devolution: Assam's share of devolution stands at ₹38,154 crore.
8. Infrastructure Development through PMGSY Phase IV and PMAY: The state's infrastructure will receive a significant boost through the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Phase IV and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), focusing on rural roads and housing.
9. Boost for Tribal Areas: Tribal areas in Assam will benefit under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan.