I have always believed that anniversaries are a way to go for a fresh start and not just celebration time. Time and again, I have used this space to state my desire and that of the Government I am part of, that we will use every landmark occasion as a day of reflection on how our Government could have served people better. When our popular Government completed four years in office on May 21, 2025, I reflected on areas where we could have delivered more, and also drew satisfaction at the progress made by us.
The State’s economy is on a roll. The figures speak for themselves. Our GSDP, our revenue collection, and our industrial reforms have worked wonders thus far. We are among the fastest growing states in the country. Our industrialisation, though belated, is catching pace with advanced states. Some of India’s biggest industrial conglomerates have already promised more investment, thanks to Advantage Assam 2.0, and the prevailing peace in the State, while other companies, including MNCs are on their way to do so. Of course, our Honourable Prime Minister is personally ensuring that an enabling atmosphere not only in Assam but in the entire North East region is created so that industries and their related components are put in place.
The Tata semiconductor unit in Jagiroad will be counted as our biggest achievement in the last four years vis-a-vis our leap towards a new kind of manufacturing, away from the traditional ones, and generating jobs and goodwill. Even local entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the red carpet laid out for them. Barely a month passes by, when one or the other enterprise from Assam enters into an MoU with us for fresh investment. This is very encouraging. Let me recall for you that just a few years back, these industrialists were the ones who were talking of taking their capital to other states because of the prevailing law and order and confusion in the State. They have not only come back, but have also spread the good words that Assam is the next elephant in the industrial space of the country. A State that has shed its perceived tag and has taken giant strides. Our business-friendly policies and an enabling bureaucracy and prevailing eco system is acting as a catalyst in achieving the desired objectives. Far from being complacent, I and our Government are aware of the challenges that we have and are determined to surmount.
We are also a Government that is fully aware of the needs of our people. Our efforts in creating jobs and ensuring social security have fetched us a dividend. We have already created over one lakh Government jobs, and are not topped at that. People appreciate us for delivering more than we promised in our election manifesto. An elected Government’s mandate goes beyond promises. Our monthly transfers under Orunodoi have not only increased the amount paid each month but also increased the number of beneficiaries after carefully assessing the ground reality. Our health services have improved leaps and bounds. An example of the number of medical colleges and hospitals, and cancer institutes is but one example. The fall in Maternal Mortality Rate and Child Mortality Rate have demonstrated that the seeds we planted four years ago have now grown into a splendid tree. Yes, the fruits are just about to ripen, but the early signs are already there. I know this is just a work in progress and we need to do more. “We will” is my promise to the people of Assam.
Our relentless crackdown on child marriage and drugs have been the talk of the country. States after states are keen to follow this model of ours. It clearly shows that if effective Governance becomes the objective of Government in power, there is nothing that cannot be achieved. The motto has to be: Services to the People.
Amid all the din around our economy, health and people’s welfare, we have not forgotten the rich cultural history of Assam. Our efforts in popularising the Bihu and Jhumoir dance forms have already drawn national and international attention. No less than the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji has encouraged us with his attendance when we attempted a Herculean feat of getting tens of thousands of dancers and musicians to be part of two huge exercises. These feats drew applause from the Prime Minister who was mesmerised by the sheer beauty of the dance forms. Similarly, when we attempted to take Lachit Barphukan’s heroics to the global stage, the world noticed it. My heart is filled with pride when I am told by many during my visits to various parts of the country that Lachit and his deeds are now known to them and their people. It was just a question of imagination and intent. However, where other Governments failed, we succeeded. We had the people behind us and the good intent. I want to assure the people of Assam that this will always be the case whenever the interest of Assam is at stake.
