Assam CA 29 June

1.

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has recently issued an advisory to all DCs of Assam, in which he laid out a set of guidelines and directives which must be strictly adhered to during the CM’s visit to any programme.

Firstly, the organiser of the event is instructed to light a lamp (diya/chaki) before the start of the function, which should remain lit throughout the meeting. It has also been emphasized that the felicitation of the Chief Minister with gamusa/flower bouquet should be strictly avoided, and that no gift items should be offered to him.

Additionally, it is stated that there should be no vote of thanks extended, except by the anchor of the event. If the CM is staying overnight, the next morning’s program should commence with the plantation of a commercial tree.

In terms of hospitality, tea must be served in earthen cups (kulhads), and water should be provided in glass bottles/jugs instead of single-use plastic bottles. Furthermore, it is mandated that the lunch and dinner menus be kept simple and vegetarian, following the Assamese/local tribal style.

2.

More than 2000 taxi operators registered in the ASTC’s app-based taxi service which intends to give aggregators like Uber and Ola a run for their money.

Assam government took a significant step by introducing a mobile app for first-ever taxi service in Guwahati called “ASTC City Cab”. The state government has taken this initiative to enhance the urban transportation services by introducing the first-ever city taxi service through a mobile app.

The app (ASTC City Cabs) has been launched and it is open for registration now. Rides will be launched after a month. We will be keeping the lowest fares, and passengers will not face inconveniences like cancellations as the app will enable both the driver and passengers to know the fare and destination before it is accepted and the driver can skip the ride without troubling the passenger

As part of a special effort to make Guwahati’s commuters’ access to convenient transportation options easier, the ASTC City Cab app was launched. The Assam government has started to lead the pack in presenting this imaginative application based taxi administration, making it the first of its sort in the state. The service will have a trial run for a month before going live.

3.

Eid-al-Adha which is also known as Bakrid, is being celebrated with full zeal and zest across the state of Assam including other parts of the country.

Bakrid is a ‘festival of Qurbani’ and holds a significance for Muslim people across the globe. It is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic or lunar calendar. It marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Thousands of people in different places of Assam have gathered together to participate in mass prayers at the mosque, Eidgah Maidan this morning. 

On the occasion, sweets along with gifts were also distributed among the people. A festive atmosphere prevailed at various localities as men and children draped in traditional attire came out in the streets. Religious sermons were also delivered on the occasion for peace and harmony.

It is also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice or the Greater Eid. This celebration revolves around when Allah appeared to Ibrahim in a dream and asked him to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, as a sign of his faith.

It is one of the two main festivals celebrated by the Muslim community.

4.

In an impressive display of efficiency, the Assam Government has successfully merged the Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Asom programs, ensuring seamless access to healthcare for its citizens. Within a mere two months, a remarkable 75% of eligible beneficiaries have been enrolled, showcasing the government’s proactive efforts and commitment to improving public welfare.

With this integrated approach, over 2 crore individuals now have the convenience of utilizing their ration cards to access a wide range of benefits. Notably, they can now enjoy the privilege of receiving free rice and availing cashless healthcare services up to an impressive sum of ₹5 lakh.

By embracing this streamlined system, the Assam Government has effectively eliminated unnecessary red tape, simplifying the process for individuals to access vital services. The convergence of Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Asom is a testament to the government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its people and ensuring their access to essential resources.

This innovative initiative not only enhances the convenience of citizens but also underscores the government’s dedication to promoting an inclusive society, where healthcare is accessible to all. The utilization of ration cards as a means to access healthcare services brings convenience and empowerment to the masses, ensuring that they can easily navigate the system and receive the assistance they need.

The Assam Government’s focus on improving public welfare is commendable, and their swift implementation of this integrated program sets a remarkable precedent for other regions to follow. By merging these two healthcare schemes, the government has not only eliminated duplications but also optimized the allocation of resources, ensuring that every eligible citizen can reap the benefits they are entitled to.

As the Assam Government takes services to the doorstep of its citizens, it establishes a model of governance that prioritizes efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity. The successful convergence of Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Asom highlights the government’s commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of its people.

The Assam Government’s efforts to bring services directly to its citizens are truly commendable. With the convergence of Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Asom, they have created a streamlined and efficient system that allows eligible beneficiaries to access free rice and cashless healthcare services up to ₹5 lakh using their ration cards. This transformative initiative is a testament to the government’s dedication to public welfare and serves as an example for others to emulate.

5.

During their discussion, Dr. Sarma enthusiastically shared his vision for rejuvenating the Assam State Zoo and transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility. Recognizing the importance of modernizing the zoo, he emphasized the need for creating a more immersive and enjoyable experience for visitors while ensuring the well-being and conservation of the animals. Dr. Sarma also addressed the development plans for Silchar and Dibrugarh Zoos, further highlighting his commitment to promoting wildlife conservation across the state.

The meeting between Dr. Sarma and Dr. Shukla heralds a promising future for the zoos in Assam. With the support of the Central Zoo Authority, the government aims to revamp these establishments, making them more appealing and environmentally friendly. By implementing innovative designs and incorporating cutting-edge technologies, the goal is to enhance the overall quality of the zoo experience, fostering a deeper connection between humans and animals.

The proposed changes will not only create a visually stunning environment but will also prioritize animal welfare and conservation efforts. By adhering to international standards and best practices, the Assam State Zoo, Silchar Zoo, and Dibrugarh Zoo will become beacons of modern zoology in the region.

Dr. Sarma’s dedication to transforming the zoos in Assam demonstrates his commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. These initiatives will not only attract more visitors but also educate and inspire them to actively participate in safeguarding our rich biodiversity.

As Assam moves forward with its plans to revitalize the zoos, it sets a remarkable example for other states and regions to follow. The collaboration between the Health and Family Welfare Department and the Central Zoo Authority ensures that the modernization efforts are carried out with expertise and guidance, maximizing their impact and sustainability.

With these developments, Assam is poised to create world-class zoological facilities that will not only serve as a source of entertainment but also contribute significantly to the conservation of endangered species and the preservation of our natural heritage.

6.

In a bid to promote district-led development and align with the visionary approach of the Honorable Prime Minister, the Government of Assam has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pahle India. The primary objective of this collaboration is to conduct comprehensive research and evaluation of the district-level Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with the aim of fostering sustainable growth at the grassroots level.

The Government of Assam recognizes the importance of empowering districts to drive their own development agendas, contributing to the overall progress of the state. By partnering with Pahle India, a renowned research organization, the government aims to gain valuable insights into the economic landscape of each district. This initiative will facilitate evidence-based decision-making and enable targeted interventions to address the specific needs and challenges faced by different districts.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Government of Assam and Pahle India will work hand in hand to analyze and evaluate the district-level GDP. Through rigorous research methodologies and data-driven analysis, the partnership aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the economic strengths, opportunities, and potential of each district. This in-depth assessment will serve as a foundation for formulating effective policies and implementing targeted developmental strategies tailored to the unique requirements of each district.

By fostering district-led development, the Government of Assam aims to unlock the untapped potential of various regions within the state. This decentralized approach recognizes the diverse economic landscapes and distinct challenges faced by different districts. With a focus on inclusive growth, this collaboration seeks to uplift local economies, enhance livelihood opportunities, and improve the overall well-being of communities across Assam.

The partnership between the Government of Assam and Pahle India signifies a commitment to evidence-based governance and data-driven decision-making. By leveraging Pahle India’s expertise in research and analysis, the government aims to enhance its understanding of the district-level economy, identifying key drivers of growth and areas that require targeted interventions. This collaborative effort will not only help in the formulation of effective policies but also enable the assessment of policy outcomes, ensuring continuous improvement and course correction, if necessary.

The MoU between the Government of Assam and Pahle India marks a significant step towards promoting district-led development in the state. Through extensive research and evaluation of district-level GDP, this collaboration aims to unlock the true potential of every district, fostering sustainable growth and improving the lives of the people of Assam. By embracing evidence-based governance and tailored interventions, Assam is paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all its districts.

7.

In a bid to bolster the employment prospects of the youth and empower them with essential skills, the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission, under the visionary leadership of Honorable Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, has taken a significant step forward by implementing the DDUGKY (Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana).

Recognizing the importance of equipping young individuals with the necessary tools for success in today’s competitive job market, the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission has recently signed a non-financial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with five reputable employers. This strategic alliance aims to create new and promising employment opportunities for the youth of Assam.

By forging these partnerships, the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission aims to bridge the gap between skill development and industry requirements. The collaboration will play a pivotal role in addressing the pressing issue of unemployment among the youth, ensuring that they are equipped with the relevant skills and knowledge demanded by the job market.

The initiative emphasizes the significance of vocational training and skill enhancement programs, offering young individuals a pathway to gainful employment and economic independence. Under the guidance of Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission envisions a future where the youth of Assam can harness their potential and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.

The non-financial MoU signed with these five employers signifies a strong commitment to empowering the youth of Assam. By providing them with diverse employment opportunities, the initiative aims to boost their job prospects and create a positive impact on their lives and the overall socio-economic landscape of the state.

It is crucial to note that this reinvigorated approach by the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission is a beacon of hope for the youth. It demonstrates the government’s unwavering dedication to nurturing talent, fostering skill development, and catalyzing the creation of a skilled workforce that meets the evolving demands of the job market.

As the DDUGKY initiative gains momentum in Assam, it is expected to inspire other states and organizations to adopt similar strategies for empowering their own youth. The Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission’s visionary leadership and commitment to the betterment of the youth serve as a shining example for others to follow.

The Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission, under the dynamic leadership of Honorable Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, is taking significant strides in enhancing the job prospects of the youth. Through strategic partnerships with reputed employers, this initiative aims to equip young individuals with the necessary skills and pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.

8.

An asteroid named “2022 OR13” has been registered in the ‘Minor Planet Center’ of the International Astronomical Union, and it was identified by the Silchar based citizen science group called ‘Astrogen.” Dr. Himadri Sekhar Das, the team leader of Astrogen and an Associate Professor of Physics at Assam University received an email from an official of the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) on Tuesday informing him about the discovery.

Asteroid search campaigns, also known as asteroid discovery campaigns, are popular citizen science projects facilitated by the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC). Citizen science refers to public participation in scientific research, where individuals or groups collect, report, or analyze data independently or in collaboration with professional scientists. IASC is a citizen science programme that offers high-quality astronomical images to citizen scientists worldwide, free of charge. NASA and the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (PAN-STARRS) in the Hawaiian Islands are involved in the project. Citizen scientists are provided with various night sky images, primarily from PAN-STARRS, and they use the ‘Astrometrica’ software to detect asteroids. The campaign typically lasts for around 25 days each month. To date, citizen scientists have initially identified 12,307 asteroids, out of which only 78 are on the provisional detection list. Asteroids are objects that orbit the Sun in a vast region between Mars and Jupiter, known as the Asteroid Belt. According to scientists, when the solar system’s other planets were forming, another planet was expected to develop in the space between Mars and Jupiter, but for unknown reasons, it did not form. As a result, there are millions of asteroids of varying sizes in that region. The largest known asteroid is Ceres, which has a diameter of 945 kilometers. Some asteroids come very close to Earth as they orbit the Sun, and they are referred to as “Near Earth Asteroids.” In the past, certain asteroids have collided with earth, causing significant damage. Scientists believe that the extinction of dinosaurs was caused by the impact of comets or asteroids on earth. So far, approximately 9,000 Near Earth Asteroids and about 600,000 asteroids of various sizes have been discovered.

9.

Governor Kataria kicked off IEEE Smart Village Project through which sustainable rural community development program is run at Jhawani village (a small village located in Sonitpur district). The project is aimed at contributing to upliftment of rural livelihood through intervention of smart and sustainable technologies like solar powered plant, oil and pulse mills, cold storage facility and fishery.

10.

The Dibrugarh district administration organized ‘Aarohan Scheme’ for Mentor-Mentee programme for the talented students of Class IX to XII of Assam, where a teacher being the mentor will be guiding the students who will be the mentees for various skills and developments. The Aarohan scheme is one such initiative envisioned by the Chief Minister of Assam. Mentors will assist selected students of new generation in ascending and excelling in their career and in life.

11.

In view of the ongoing flood situation in Cachar, the District Disaster Management Authority Cachar has distributed Disaster Kits to 409 trained volunteers of the district who will serve as first responder role in wake of any disaster in the district.

district disaster management authority has deputed these ‘Aapda Mitra’ volunteers for undergoing special training under the Government of India’s sponsored scheme “Upscaling of Aapda Mitra” wherein volunteers were sensitized about different aspects of disaster management. ‘Aapda Mitra’ is a scheme launched by the Government of India in May 2016 to assist and help the public during natural disaster. It is a programme to identify suitable individuals in disaster-prone regions who can be trained to be first responders in time of distress. The main objective of the distribution of ‘Aapda Mitra’ kits to the volunteers is to help them combat the problems faced by the public during natural disasters like flood, earthquake, landslides, etc. so that they can readily help people around them whenever they are in distress. The disaster kits include Personal Floatation Device (Life jacket) Torch or emergency light (solar enabled) Safety gloves(Canvas/leather),Pocket knife, first aid kit, gas lighter, whistle, Water Resistant Clothing, 9 raincoats, water bottle, rucksack and mosquito net, safety goggles, safety Helmet(water rafting). Later, a demonstration was also conducted by the NDRF officials about the safety measures to be taken by the volunteers during earthquake, dip driving ,flood etc.