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Business News›Magazines›Panache›Panache People 101›Himanta Biswa Sarma
    Himanta Biswa Sarma

    Himanta Biswa Sarma

    Chief Minister, Assam
    Birth DetailsFebruary 1, 1969 | Gandhi Basti, Guwahati
    NationalityIndian
    LeaguePolitician
    EducationMA Political Science, Cotton University; LLB, Government Law College, Guwahati
    Himanta Biswa Sarma's Journey so far ...
    • An alumnus of Guwahati's prestigious Cotton College (now Cotton University), Himanta Biswa Sarma completed his post-graduation in political science from the institution
    • From his early days in college, he was involved in student politics. He was the general secretary of the Cotton College Union Society from 1991 to 1992. After his master’s, he attended Government Law College in Guwahati from where he obtained an LLB degree. Sarma practised law till 2001
    • In the early 1980s, he took part in the anti-foreigner's stir in Assam, along with All Assam Students' Union (AASU) leaders Prafulla Kumar Mahanta and Bhrigu Kumar Phukan. His activities were noticed by then Congress chief minister Hiteswar Saikia, who mentored him
    • In 1996, he first contested from the Jalukbari Assembly constituency on a Congress ticket but lost to his mentor Bhrigu Phukan before bouncing back five years later
    • The then chief minister Tarun Gogoi appointed the debutant MLA as a minister for agriculture, planning and development. Sarma became Gogoi’s main troubleshooter
    • He was the main campaigner for the 2011 Assembly elections and was a cabinet minister in Gogoi's second term, when he emerged as a de facto CM
    • In spite of an anti-incumbency wave in 2011, Gogoi came back to power for a third consecutive term with the help of Sarma's political skills and acumen, for which he was rewarded with plum portfolios
    • With the success, an ambitious Sarma started eyeing the chief minister's post and even camped in Delhi to lobby with the party's top leadership. This led to a wide rift within the Assam Congress and he was sidelined in the party
    • In 2015, he resigned from all government posts, the Congress and also as an MLA. Within a few months, he was welcomed to the BJP by then party president Amit Shah and made the Convenor of Assam BJP's Election Management Committee
    • Sarma, along with then BJP state president Sarbananda Sonowal, scripted history when the party won the 2016 Assembly elections. The duo was responsible for routing the Congress and establishing the first BJP government in Assam
    • Apart from holding key portfolios, like health and finance, in the Sonowal ministry, he was made the convenor of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), the NDA's coalition in the region. Sarma was tasked to ensure similar victories in other North Eastern states
    • He came out with flying colours over the next five years and became the blue-eyed boy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, NDA won 19 seats out of 25 in the Northeast
    • In the 2021 Assembly polls, he retained the Jalukbari seat and beat his nearest rival by over 1 lakh votes. Top leadership of the BJP appointed him as the head of the party in Assam and on May 10, he was sworn-in as the 15th Chief Minister of the state
    • Under his leadership, the Assam government introduced policies such as Ethanol Production Promotion and Wildlife Conservation
    • When there were widespread protests in Assam against the Citizenship Amendment Act, Sarma took to the streets and toured every nook and corner of the state to espouse the cause of CAA

    Before you go ...
    • During the Covid-19 crisis, he received praise from several quarters for his successful handling of the pandemic in the state
    • During campaigning for the Assembly polls, he received flak when he said there was no need to wear masks as there was no Covid in Assam
    • In an effort to curb poaching and create awareness of the endangered one-horned Indian rhinoceros, Sarma burnt rhino horns, a coveted item among poachers
    • In Assam and other North Eastern states, the youth call him Mama (Uncle)

    Last Updated: 26/10/2021

    Himanta Biswa Sarma News

    • The Assam Assembly has passed a bill to repeal a 1935 law that registered Muslim marriages and divorces. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated the aim is to shift registration under the government system, ensuring compliance with a Supreme Court order. This move seeks to end the social issue of child marriages in the state.
    • Assam Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika said that Banerjee can neither bully nor threaten them. "She can't control law and order in her state and is threatening us. It will not happen in Assam; I am assuring you. I can assure you she can't do anything in Assam, until the BJP govt is here and Himanta Biswa Sarma is the CM," Hazarika added.
    • Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma alleged that Jharkhand police snooped on former CM Champai Soren, who is set to join BJP. Soren's movements in New Delhi were monitored, and two Special Branch officers were caught taking photos of him at a hotel. An FIR has been registered by Delhi Police.
    • Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren has announced his decision to join the BJP, citing the need to address tribal issues and combat Bangladeshi infiltration in the Santhal Pargana region. He will resign from the JMM and his ministerial post, emphasizing that his move is in the interest of Jharkhand.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused Jharkhand minister Champai Soren of being under surveillance by Jharkhand police for the past five months. According to Sarma, two sub-inspectors from Jharkhand’s Special Branch were caught monitoring Soren at a Delhi hotel, allegedly under orders from a high-ranking official and the Special Branch chief.
    • Speaking in the assembly on the Opposition's adjournment motion on several key issues, including rape of minors and the targeting of Muslims in Upper Assam's Sivasagar district, Sarma said, "I will take sides. What can you do? Will not let Miya Muslims take over Assam...Let them (the Opposition) compete for minority votes. I am not in the competition."
    • In a heated assembly debate, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted he would take sides to prevent 'Miya' Muslims from dominating the state. The session was prompted by multiple opposition motions addressing rising crime rates, including a high-profile rape case. The exchanges led to a brief adjournment of the proceedings.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma suggested a connection between a minor girl's rape in Dhing and land encroachment tactics. He claimed that increasing criminal activities scare indigenous Assamese people, causing them to leave their land. The prime accused in the case reportedly escaped from police custody and drowned.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed concern over recent crimes against women in the state, suggesting a larger agenda of land grabbing and threatening Assamese identity. He hinted at political backing for the crimes and observed a shift in financial power away from the local population. Sarma emphasised the need for unity to combat these issues and vowed to take strong measures to address them.
    • A 14-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three persons in Assam's Nagaon district, leading to widespread protests. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that stern action would be taken against the culprits. Police have arrested one individual and detained another, while a search for the third suspect continues.
    • In the Statement of Objects and Reasons, Sarma said that a substantial number of people living in the Barak valley and other parts of the state speak Manipuri language and there have been persistent demands to officially recognise their language.
    • The Assam cabinet has approved a proposed law requiring Muslims to register marriages and divorces with the government, bypassing the role of traditional qazis. This new law aims to prevent child marriages and will be presented in the legislative assembly. Registration will be managed by district commissioners and registrars, ensuring better compliance and record-keeping.
    • The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is set to introduce a controversial bill in the upcoming state assembly session starting on August 22, mandating the government registration of marriages and divorces within the Muslim community. The bill has sparked opposition, with critics arguing that it interferes with religious practices. While the opposition supports amending child marriage provisions, they strongly oppose government involvement in marriage and divorce regulations, citing concerns over religious autonomy. The bill aims to address issues like child marriage but has drawn criticism for its perceived communal undertones.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the anti-talk faction of ULFA still has influence in the state, with about 400 members based in Myanmar. Although its impact has lessened compared to the 1990s, Sarma noted that the group remains active. He is in regular contact with ULFA leader Paresh Baruah to discuss peace talks but has faced challenges, particularly over the issue of sovereignty.
    • The banned terrorist organization in a statement issued to the media on Thursday stated, "We have planted bombs in 24 locations across different districts of Assam as a mark of protest against Indian Independence Day. The bombs were planted as part of our protest from 6 am to 12 noon on August 15. However, the protest programme is cancelled due to some technical reasons, and we are making the locations of the bombs public so that the bombs could be defused," said the ULFA statement.
    • On Thursday, the banned ULFA(I) claimed to have planted bombs at 24 locations across Assam, including eight in Guwahati. Security forces have been deployed, but no bombs have been recovered so far, though some "bomb-like materials" were found. ULFA(I) cited "technical failure" for the non-detonation and urged public cooperation. Police are conducting thorough searches and have closed roads in the affected areas
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed concern over the declining population balance between Hindus and Muslims in the state, stating that the future is "not secure." He highlighted demographic changes, with Muslims at 41 per cent and Hindus at 57 pr cent. Sarma urged adherence to family planning and unity among communities to address the issue, emphasizing the need to protect the interests of indigenous people.
    • A proposal to rename the Guwahati railway station after former chief minister Bishnu Ram Medhi would be submitted to the Union Government.
    • Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed a change in the disbursement of compassionate grants for deceased government employees, redistributing 80% to spouses and 20% to parents. The state will also introduce a portal for government transfers, allowing employees to manage transfers themselves, thereby minimizing government involvement and corruption.
    • Sarma virtually inaugurated commercial operations of five Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations at a programme held in Dispur.
    • Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences and Novo Nordisk Foundation signed an MoU to enhance Assam's health sector. The deal aims to improve nursing education, including an Education Innovation Unit and Simulation Lab. The partnership provides initial financial support of Rs 6 crore and promises further collaboration to improve nursing education and development.
    • Sarma stated on X, “This morning at 1:30 AM, Bangladeshi citizens identified as Motiur Seikh, Mushiar Mullah, Tania Mullah, and Rita Mullah attempted to enter India through the Karimganj sector of the India-Bangladesh border. However, police effectively intervened at the zero point and promptly repelled them, preventing their unauthorized entry.”
    • The ruling BJP in Assam will field candidates for two Rajya Sabha seats in the upcoming Gambegre bypoll. The seats were vacant following the election of Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal from Dibrugarh Lok Sabha seat. The bye-poll will be held in five assembly constituencies, with BJP likely to contest three seats and one each for its allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and United People's Party Liberal (UPPL).
    • It may be noted that the MoU was signed by the Director Cultural Affairs Department Meenakshi Das and DDG Doordarshan Amit Kumar. As a part of the MoU, the State government to partner with Prasar Bharati to make a documentary on the legendary Ahom general Lachit Borphukan.
    • Recent turmoil in Bangladesh has sparked concerns that militant groups from Northeast India could seek refuge there. Under Sheikh Hasina's regime, these groups, including factions of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), were expelled from Bangladesh and relocated to Myanmar. With a long border shared between India and Bangladesh, and ongoing instability in Bangladesh, there is apprehension that insurgent outfits may exploit the situation. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has highlighted the need to secure the border to prevent such groups from using Bangladesh as a base.
    • Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pointed to a declining Hindu population resembling trends in Bangladesh and blamed USTM University for severe flash floods in Guwahati. He intends to address the issue with Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to find a solution to the ongoing problems caused by deforestation and water blockage.
    • Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma raised concerns about instability in Bangladesh, which could become a base for Northeast Indian insurgent groups. He stressed the importance of securing borders and praised Sheikh Hasina's actions to expel militants. Sarma hoped the new Bangladeshi government would address these security issues in collaboration with India.
    • Himanta Biswa Sharma voiced the possibility of Bangladesh becoming a safe ground for terrorist activities in the future. "During the time of Sheikh Hasina, all terrorist groups from the north-east were removed from Bangladesh. For us, it will be a matter of concern; once again, Bangladesh must not become a safe haven for such terrorists. I hope the Indian government will stay in constant touch with whichever government is formed there." The Assam Chief Minister said.
    • Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed plans to introduce a law for life imprisonment in 'love jihad' cases. Announced at a BJP meet, he also discussed a new domicile policy for government jobs and a mandate requiring his approval for land sales between Hindus and Muslims. The government aims to prioritize indigenous people for jobs.
    • The Assam Tourism Development Corporation signed an MoU with Amalgamated Plantations Private Limited and the Indian Hotels Company Limited to develop a Taj Resort and Spa in Kaziranga. This project, involving an investment of Rs. 120 crore, aims to enhance the state's tourism infrastructure and create significant employment opportunities.
    • Officials from Mizoram and Assam met on August 9 in Aizawl to discuss their long-standing border dispute. The Mizoram delegation was led by Home Minister K. Sapdanga, while Assam's team was headed by Border Protection Minister Atul Bora. Previous agreements were reviewed, and both states agree to maintain peace and continue economic activities along the border.
    • Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota highlighted the state's significant improvements in the business ecosystem since the Assam Ease of Doing Business Act in 2016, emphasising continuous evolvement to meet business community needs. Kota commended the Indian Chamber of Commerce's contributions and efforts in the region, underscoring Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's proactive measures to enhance ease of doing business. This resulted in major investments and policy enhancements.
    • Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma insisted that stopping infiltration is a shared responsibility. He cited significant increases in infiltrator populations in Assam and Jharkhand, urging state action. Sarma also challenged Rahul Gandhi's idea of a caste survey that excludes revealing one's own caste details.
    • On Tuesday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused BJP MP Anurag Thakur of "abusing and insulting" him during the Lok Sabha discussion on the Union Budget. Thakur had engaged in a heated exchange with Gandhi, criticizing those who questioned the caste census while not revealing their caste.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticized the Jharkhand and West Bengal governments over rising Rohingya infiltrations, highlighting the potential demographic changes. He cited recent arrests in Tripura and warned that appeasement policies are failing. Sarma urged national attention to the issue, stressing its impact on various Indian states.
    • The chief minister during the Deputy commissioners conference stated that DCs have been asked to keep Government functions simple and solemn. Vegetarian food must be served in all Government functions or whenever there is a visit of the Chief Minister or Ministers.
    • Union budget 2024-25- With Assam grappling with several waves of floods every year Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the budget 2024-25 announced that assistance will be provided to Assam for flood management and related projects
    • The delimitation of constituencies in Assam was held in August last year and lok sabha polls were held as per the delimited constituencies.
    • Assam's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, stated on Friday that the Muslim population in Assam is increasing by at least 29 to 30 percent each decade, predicting that the state will become Muslim-majority by 2041.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday claimed that the Muslim population in his state is growing around 30 per cent every 10 years, and they will become the majority by 2041. Addressing a press conference here, he said Muslims have now become 40 per cent of Assam's population as per "statistical sampling".
    • On Thursday, the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led Assam government decided to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act and Rules 1935 through the Assam Repealing Bill 2024 to prevent child marriage and ensure parity in marriage and divorce registration.
    • The Assam government has decided to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act from 1935 to prevent child marriage and ensure parity in marriage and divorce registration. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma aims to introduce a new bill for Muslim marriage registration in the next assembly session. The state also plans to implement the Uniform Civil Code to address issues like underage marriage and property inheritance. Over 1,000 arrests were made in a recent crackdown on child marriage in Assam.
    • Controversy arises in Assam as government instructs police not to refer CAA cases to Foreigners Tribunals. AJP criticizes the move while AASU protests the notification. Chief Minister Sarma discloses low number of CAA citizenship applications. Debates continue over the impact of CAA in Assam.
    • The flood situation in Assam sees gradual improvement as over 5 lakh people in 17 districts still face deluge. Union Home Minister Amit Shah assures Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of support, with Odisha offering assistance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledges aid, with over 100 casualties reported. Major rivers remain at dangerous levels.
    • The Assam government has instructed the state police to not forward cases of eligible individuals under the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 who entered India before 2014 directly to Foreigners Tribunals. Instead, these individuals should apply for citizenship through the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), with their applications assessed by the Government of India.
    • The Chief Minister met the families of Sujan Malakar, Jit Karmakar, Prasenjit Saha, Gouranga Malakar and Uday Sarkar and expressed his deep sympathy to them and prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls.
    • The issue of replacing the statue which is over 60-year-old has snowballed into major controversy with opposition Congress staging protest. Locals and organisations are miffed by the district administrations’ decision.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that proficiency in the local language is now mandatory for government job selection, ensuring local rights and interests. This follows controversy over a notification exempting permanent resident certificates for certain college positions. Sarma also highlighted the success of the Pragyan Bharti scheme, benefiting nearly one lakh students with free education.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced plans to fill 35,000 government vacancies by April 2025. This includes positions in the police force, grade 3 and grade 4 roles within the state government, and teacher positions. Recruitment processes will be conducted transparently, with grade 3 and grade 4 exams scheduled in stages from September onwards. Police recruitment will begin in October, and notifications for teacher positions will follow soon. Physical tests for over 6,400 Assam Police posts start from October 3, while preliminary exams for grade 3 and grade 4 roles are set for September and October.
    • Assam's flood crisis has worsened, affecting nearly 23 lakh people across 28 districts. With water levels of major rivers above danger marks, the death toll has reached 78. Over 53,000 are in relief camps. Multiple agencies are engaged in rescue operations, and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assures adequate relief efforts.
    • CM Sarma visited three relief camps, spent time with the flood victims to take note of the rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures being undertaken by the government.
    • Condoling the deaths caused by the deluge, Priyanka Gandhi posted on X on Sunday, "The news of the deaths of a large number of people due to floods in Assam is very sad. Due to the continuously deteriorating situation, lakhs of people are living in relief camps."
    • Assam is witnessing the second wave of floods. The death toll in the floods this year stood at 52 and 12 others lost their lives due to landslides and storms.
    • Floods in Assam result in 58 deaths, with over 2.3 million people affected. Chief Minister visits affected areas and directs intensified search for missing child. Wildlife in Kaziranga National Park also impacted by the deluge. Thousands displaced, infrastructure damaged.
    • The severe flood situation in Assam has resulted in the loss of life, extensive damage to infrastructure, road closures, crop destruction, and livestock loss. Hundreds of people have been left homeless and unsettled, with Jubbar Ali, his family, and around 100 families in the Rowmari Pathar area facing similar problems. The Brahmaputra River's erosion has submerged 179 villages and inundated 1,571.5 hectares of crop area. Over 2.42 million people in 30 districts have been affected so far, with Dhubri being the worst-hit district.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited various flood-affected areas of Dibrugarh district, wading through submerged roads to assess the situation and interact with the affected residents.
    • Assam floods affect 16.50 lakh in 29 districts, with Brahmaputra, Digaru, Kollong overflowing. CM Sarma to visit. Relief measures discussed. Death toll: 56. Dhubri, Darrang, Lakhimpur worst hit. Brahmaputra above danger at Nimatighat, Tezpur, Guwahati, Goalpara, Dhubri. Tributaries Subansiri, Burhi Dihing, Dikhou, Disang, Dhansiri, Kopili overflow. Barak river and tributaries also flood.
    • Assam and Manipur grapple with devastating floods, leading to casualties and extensive damage, while authorities mobilize resources for relief efforts amidst challenging weather conditions.
    • Earlier on Sunday, the IAF had rescued 8 State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel and a revenue official from Jonai in Dhemaji district when they were stranded in another sandbar area during relief operations. Dibrugarh district has been severely affected in the current wave with the major town in Upper Assam inundated for the sixth consecutive day.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has declared a critical flood situation in the state due to heavy rainfall in Arunachal Pradesh. The river Brahmaputra and its tributaries are flowing above the danger level, with Dibrugarh in Upper Assam being the worst affected area. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy rainfall for the next two to three days.
    • A letter shared by a Guwahati woman to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlights a distressing incident involving her 17-year-old transgender daughter. The teenager was forced to leave her school after posting bikini photos on social media, leading to accusations of slander and discrimination by the school principal. The case, which has sparked debates on gender inclusivity and the right to personal expression, is now under review by the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR).
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for releasing the 17th instalment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi on June 18th, benefiting a total of 9.26 crore farmers nationwide. In Assam alone, Rs 350 crores were disbursed to 17.5 lakh beneficiaries. The PM-KISAN scheme, launched in 2019, provides Rs 6,000 per year to land-holding farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer.
    • The lunch menu included plain rice, jeera rice, pulao, mutton curry, special fish curry, fried fish, small fish cooked with ginger, mixed lentil soup, fried small potatoes, fried brinjal, mashed potatoes with mustard oil, sesame seed chutney, pickle, sweet yogurt, and gulab jamun, among 22 other items. Cabinet meetings in Assam are held in different locations by rotation.
    • Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor faced backlash from the BJP-led government in Uttar Pradesh for sharing a meme regarding paper leaks in a national-level examination. The post sparked controversy and criticism from BJP leaders, labeling Tharoor as a 'repeat offender' for his indirect jibe at PM Narendra Modi.
    • Assam has seen a decrease in flood cases in eight districts, with over 2,07,500 people affected. The worst hit is Karimganj, with over 1.1 lakh people suffering. The total number of people killed in this year's flood, landslide, and storm is 39. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has suggested the creation of at least 50 large ponds in the northeast region to divert Brahmaputra river water, aiming to tackle floods and develop agriculture, irrigation, and tourism.
    • Sources said that chief Ministers focused on enhancing coordination among their respective police forces to effectively counter militant activities along the border. Measures to prevent the spillover of ethnic violence from Manipur into Assam.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited the construction sites of Assam Skill University, Mangaldai Bypass, and Darrang Medical College & Hospital. He expressed concern over the slow progress of the projects and directed authorities to expedite completion. The Mangaldai Bypass on NH15 will enhance road connectivity between West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. The Assam Skill University aims to offer modern skill education, while the Darrang Medical College & Hospital will provide healthcare facilities and medical education.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reshuffled some departments following the recent Lok Sabha polls. He has taken over the Health and Family Welfare Department from Keshav Mahanta, who previously handled the health portfolio. Mahanta will oversee Transport, Excise, and Fisheries departments.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited Gauhati Medical College & Hospital to review the construction of the new Mother & Child Hospital wing, costing Rs. 375 crores. This eight-floor facility aims to address the rising number of maternal and pediatric cases. During a meeting with health officials, Sarma discussed faculty recruitment and capacity expansion. He highlighted that 70% of the construction is complete, with the rest expected by April 2025. Sarma also emphasized improving healthcare access and transitioning to solar energy for hospital operations.
    • BJP's early appointments for the assembly polls come after its relatively poor performance in 2024, vis-a-vis 2019 Lok Sabha polls, in Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand. BJP could win only nine Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, compared to 23 it won in 2019. NDA's total tally is 17 out of 48 in the state. Deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Bhupendra Yadav have worked together for the Bihar assembly elections. Yadav was the party in-charge while Fadnavis was made election in-charge of the state.
    • BJP national President J P Nadda announced leaders in charge and co-incharge for upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand, and Jammu and Kashmir. Bhupender Yadav and Ashwini Vaishnaw to lead in Maharashtra, Dharmendra Pradhan and Biplab Kumar Dev in Haryana, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Himanta Biswa Sarma in Jharkhand, and G Kishan Reddy has been given the responsibility for Jammu and Kashmir.
    • Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Janata Bhawan Solar Project, a 2.5-Mw power generation capacity grid connected rooftop and ground-mounted solar PV system. The project will generate an average of 3 lakh units of electricity monthly, with an investment of Rs. 12.56 crore expected to be recovered within four years. The project will make the Assam Secretariat Complex the first civil secretariat in the country to rely entirely on solar generated electricity for daily consumption.
    • The Chief Minister took stock of the loss of land of the Kaziranga National Park primarily due to swift flow of river water. He said that as a result of this, a sizeable chunk of the forest land of the park has been lost. In view of this, he announced that a joint task force will be formed taking experts from Forest Department, Water Resources Department and the Kaziranga National Park to study the phenomena and recommend remedial steps. The team will submit its report within 45 days to the government. Based on the recommendations, the government will take appropriate steps to address the menace of soil erosion in the park.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the upcoming construction of a 1,000-MW Solar Power Project in Karbi Anglong. This comes after the laying of the foundation stone for a 25-MW solar power generation project at the Namrup Thermal Power Station in Dibrugarh district. The joint venture between Assam Power Generation Corporation and Oil India Limited will cost Rs. 115 crores and is expected to produce 50 million units of electricity annually upon completion in July 2025.
    • Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, took oath for the third consecutive term in Itanagar. He approved Rs 100 crore under the CMSSS, benefiting 80000 beneficiaries. The oath ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including BJP leaders.
    • The scheme aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio beyond matriculation, disburse benefits via DBT, and provide financial grants under the Anundoram Borooah Scheme for students scoring over 75% marks.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma introduced the 'Nijut Moina' scheme, offering monthly stipends to girls from class 11 to post-graduation to deter child marriages. The scheme has been launched with an estimated Rs 1,500 crore allocated over five years for around 10 lakh girls, excluding married girls unless enrolled in post-grad programs. The initiative aims to promote financial independence and education, providing varying amounts based on academic level.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Centre is set to invest Rs. 1,000 Crore for the construction of a new Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Assam. The proposed site for the IIM is located in the Marabhita and Dighalkuchi localities in Kamrup district, marking the second IIM in the Northeastern region after IIM Shillong in Meghalaya.
    • Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that a particular religion has not voted for NDA in Nagaland, Meghalaya and Manipur.
    • Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma did not campaign in Northeast India during Lok Sabha polls as he focused on Eastern India. He mentioned a particular religion not voting for NDA in Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Manipur.
    • Assam government has raised petrol prices by Rs 1.02 per litre and diesel prices by Rs 1.01 Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the state's fuel prices are Rs. 7 lower than West Bengal's, making them among the most affordable in India. He emphasising that despite the recent increase, prices remain lower than in neighboring states.
    • Jorhat assembly seat- Will have to invest time and had to give lot of time and put in lot of effort if he contests from Jorhat assembly seat in 2026 assembly polls and party will have to see if so, much time can be given by the chief minister in a constituency-Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
    • The Congress party in Assam won in three Lok Sabha seats despite alleged manipulation in last year's delimitation exercise, with the state government now initiating a delimitation process for panchayats aiming for elections by November. The political landscape of Assam has shifted after the recent delimitation of assembly and parliamentary constituencies, leading to changes in electoral dynamics and outcomes in the Lok Sabha polls.
    • Guwahati: Assam will soon get an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) with IIM Ahmedabad mentoring the new IIM in Guwahati. Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who previously advocated for this, announced the approval and highlighted the collaboration of premier institutes in transforming Assam into an educational hub.
    • As many as 54 candidates are in the fray for polls in three Lok Sabha seats, while 11 candidates including Kalpana Soren, wife of jailed former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, are contesting in the Gandey assembly by-election, the official said.
    • Opposition in Assam criticizes Himanta Biswa Sarma for remarks on Indian Constitution color, questioning Rahul Gandhi's possession of a Chinese Constitution. Hafiz Rafiqul Islam from AIUDF adds there's no fixed color for the Indian Constitution. Congress MLA Abdul Rashid Mondal emphasizes the uniformity of content over color. Sarma accuses Rahul of opposing the Uniform Civil Code.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said grand temples would be built in Varanasi and Mathura and the Uniform Civil Code would be implemented if the NDA returns to power by winning over 400 Lok Sabha seats. He said the NDA, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will ensure that Pakistan occupied Kashmir, which is an integral part of India, returns to the country.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of displaying a Chinese constitution at his rallies due to its red cover, which resembles the Chinese constitution. Sarma noted that the Indian constitution traditionally has a blue cover. In response, social media users clarified that the red-bound book is a coat pocket edition of the Indian Constitution, presented to Indian leaders, including the President and Union Home Minister. Sarma reiterated his claim, suggesting Gandhi opposes the Indian constitution's Directive Principles, especially regarding the Uniform Civil Code.
    • Veteran Bollywood actress and BJP's star campaigner Hema Malini on Friday said the BJD government, which failed to work for the development of Odisha, should take a rest now. While campaigning for party candidates here, Malini said that the BJD government is thinking that it has done a lot of developmental work in the past 25 years, but the reality is that a lot more needs to be done.
    • The Assam chapter of the Trinamool Congress has filed a complaint with the Election Commission, accusing Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of delivering a hate speech targeting the Muslim community while in Jharkhand.
    • The Director General of Police, Assam, GP Singh, announced plans for professional recording of Body Mass Index (BMI) for all Assam Police personnel, including officers, in accordance with directives from the Chief Minister's Office. The initiative aims to assess the health status of personnel, with a focus on addressing obesity. Personnel categorized as obese (BMI 30+) will be given three months to reduce weight, with exceptions for medical conditions like thyroidism. Those deemed unfit for duty after assessment may be offered voluntary retirement.
    • Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the BJP's need for 400 Lok Sabha seats to integrate the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir into India. He stressed upon the party's commitment to implement the Uniform Civil Code. He expressed confidence in winning all Jharkhand seats in the Lok Sabha election and forming the government in the upcoming Assembly elections.
    • Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma outlined BJP's temple construction plans, PoK integration, and reservation support, contrasting with Congress's alleged bias towards Muslims over SC, ST, and OBC communities.
    • Sarma rallies for BJP, aiming for 400 Lok Sabha seats to deter Congress from rebuilding Babri Masjid. He predicts PM Modi's re-election and BJP forming Odisha government. BJP's victory anticipated in Odisha polls.
    • Sarma promises free pilgrimage to Ayodhya for 5 lakh Odisha people if BJP wins. Criticizes BJD for naming villages with numbers. Plans jobs for 3 lakh youths, addressing question paper leaks.
    • Congress leader Sam Pitroda has sparked controversy with remarks comparing Indians from different regions to people of various ethnicities, stating, "We are all brothers and sisters." His comments were criticized by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJP's Kangana Ranaut. Pitroda has a history of controversial remarks, including endorsing an inheritance tax and questioning the Balakot air strikes. The Congress has distanced itself from his comments, emphasizing they don't always align with the party's stance. Pitroda's statements have often stirred political debates, reflecting India's diverse political landscape.
    • Maulana Badruddin Ajmal faces tough competition in Dhubri against Rakibul Hussain and Zabed Islam, amidst allegations of AIUDF-BJP ties. The political landscape in Assam shifts as the Election Commission reshapes constituencies, impacting the Dhubri Phulbari bridge project.
    • Priyanka Gandhi Vadra alleged scams, secret alliances in Dhubri. Criticized BJP over sexual abuse, PM Modi for electoral bonds. Claimed BJP became world's richest party in 10 years.
    • Maulana Badruddin Ajmal, known for serving healing water, is missing from the election scene in Dhubri due to the Assam Healing Practices Bill. The contest includes Zabed Islam, Rakibul Hussain, and Asom Gana Parishad. During campaigning, Ajmal, who is president of All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), used to serve "healing" water. Earlier in the series of rallies he had to make time after prayers to "bless" many containers of water brought by his followers, who believe it has a healing effect.
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