Continuing with its avowed mission of improving life and health in the tea garden areas, the Government of Assam has announced a series of welfare measures for people living in the tea gardens and areas nearby them.
The announcement coincided with the distribution of honorarium of the grand Jhumoir Binodini held on February 24, 2025 in Guwahati.
The Jhumoir Binodini was organised to promote the beliefs, traditions, and culture of the Tea Tribe and Indigenous communities of Assam on a global platform at the Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati.
The programme was graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with other dignitaries.
During the preparation phase of the event, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma had promised certificates and honorariums to the artistes and trainers involved.
Fulfilling the promise, a felicitation ceremony was held recently where participating artistes, trainers and members of the expert committees were honoured with certificates and honorarium.
Out of the 27 participating districts, artistes and trainers from 24 districts were felicitated in this event. The participants from the Barak Valley districts will receive their certificates and honorariums at a later stage.
Members of the expert committee received ₹50,000 each while artistes and trainers received ₹25,000 each which disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Speaking at the event, noted artistes and dance/music director Sajan Naik said, “For the first time in over 200 years of Assam’s tea industry, the traditional Jhumoid dance was presented to a global audience. This is a ‘world record’ for us. I sincerely thank the Assam Government for this recognition.”
Priyanka Kurmi, one of the master trainers, added, “Thinking back of February 24, when over 8,000 artistes performed to the beats of the dhol, madal and dhamsha, still brings an emotional response. That day marked a new chapter for our cultural identity.”
One of the participating artiste posted on social media that she will use the honorarium to continue her postgraduation while expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister for the support.
In his speech, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “I am happy to announce that by January 2026, one hundred new high schools will be established in tea garden areas.”
He also announced the reservation of 30 seats in medical colleges for students from the Tea Tribe and Indigenous communities, and a three per cent reservation in Group C and D Government jobs for the community.”
A significant announcement regarding land rights was also made at the event, “In the upcoming Assam Legislative Assembly session in November, a new law will be introduced to grant land ownership rights to tea garden workers living in the line areas,” the CM stated.
Additional measures announced for the welfare of tea garden communities includes: Construction of Jagannath community halls and skill development centres, paved roads in line areas, clean drinking water, mobile medical units and Rs 15,000 financial aid for pregnant women
The Chief Minister emphasized that children from tea garden areas must progress in all aspects and actively contribute to Assam’s journey of development.
He also hinted at the possibility of another Jhumoir performance in Delhi next year showcasing it to the global audience once again, “Alongside Bihu, performances from other communities will also be included in future events.”
In addition, under the Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana, the Chief Minister flagged off 80 Sanjeevani vehicles which will provide mobile healthcare services to tea gardens and nearby rural areas.
