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1. Hon’ble Speaker Sir, I now rise to present the State budget for the

financial year 2014 – 15.

2.1 Economic Environment

Before I proceed to present my budget proposals, I would like to

apprise the Hon’ble Members of this August House about the overall economic

environment and financial position of the State.

The global economic growth came down from 3.2% in 2012 to 2.9% in

2013. Growth rate of India, however, has shown some improvement to 4.7%, in

2013-14 from 4.5% in 2012-13. I am happy to inform this August House that the

projected growth rate of Assam for 2013-14 is 6.88% which was 5.87% for

2012-13 as per the latest Central Statistical Organization estimates. This is

considerably higher than the national average and many other States. Contrary

to the trend elsewhere of expenditure compression, our State is in a

comfortable position to add further momentum to development activities. This

has been possible because of our prudent financial management.

According to advance estimate for 2013-14, the per capita

income has registered a growth rate of 4.63 percent at constant prices

and 14.53 percent at current prices in 2013-14 over the previous year.

Our per capita Net State Domestic Product stood at Rs.46,354 in 2013 –

14 compared to National per capita income of Rs. 74,920 during the

same period. Therefore, all out effort is required to be taken to bring our

per capita income to the National level.

2.2 State Finances

Our State finances have been stable for about last ten years. The basic

financial parameters of revenue and fiscal deficits have improved significantly.

We are able to disburse salary and pension in time and flow of fund for

investment has remained smooth. We have been able to attain a revenue

surplus of Rs.1554 Crore in 2012 – 13. According to CAG Report for the Financial

Year 2012-13 our fiscal deficit was 1.06% of GSDP as against FRBM target of 3%.

It may be mentioned that Government of India’s fiscal deficit for the same year

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was 4.8% of GDP. Similarly our debt GSDP ratio as on 31.3.2013 was 22.91%,

which is well below the FRBM target of 28.4%. The tax revenue of the State

increased two-fold in four years from Rs.4,150 crore in 2008-09 to Rs.8,250

crore in 2012-13, indicating an average annual growth rate of 19.76%. While

commending the fiscal management of the State Government CAG has

mentioned in its report that “….the State witnessed a marked improvement in

key fiscal indicators. The improvement in the fiscal situations during the

current year was achieved by the State by pursuing the fiscal correction and

consolidation process under a rule based fiscal framework coupled with larger

devolution and transfer by the F.C-XIII…….”

As per 6th

Economic Census ending March,2013 Assam has achieved the

following distinctions – (1) Among the major States, Assam has obtained first

position in creating employment and employment generating establishment

and fastest growth in non agricultural and non governmental employment

sector (excluding Crop production, Public Administration, Defence, Paramilitary

or Security Services). (2) In the growth of employment Assam has ranked No.1

among the major states achieving 85.55% employment in rural areas and

65.11% in urban areas. (3) Assam’s total export of commodities from various

LCS/ICD etc. rose from Rs.1469.73 crore in 2009 – 10 to Rs. 2465.56 crore in

2013-14. (4) Assam has ranked first position in providing small loan/micro credit

through Government programmes such as PMEGP/KVIC in the whole country

during 2013-14 by achieving a growth of 179.35%.

However, the overall growth prospects at national level remains

an area of concern. The Central Government has constituted the Seventh

Pay Commission. We shall also have to revise our pay structure in

consonance with the Central Pay scales in due course of time. Due to

these developments and other unavoidable circumstances we will have

to be extremely careful to maintain a healthy and stable financial regime.

2.3 Annual Plan

Hon’ble Members are aware that Assam’s 2014-15 Annual plan

discussion have not yet taken place and hence the plan size is yet to be

finalized. However, for implementation of plan schemes, a detailed

tentative plan outlay of Rs.21811.65 Crore for 2014-15 has been worked

out.

I would like to inform the August House that the Centrally

Sponsored Schemes have been restructured by Government of India.

From current year, the Central share under the Centrally Sponsored

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Schemes will be routed through the consolidated fund of the State.

Accordingly the central share for Centrally Sponsored Schemes have

been provided in the Budget.

Under the plan programmes, priority will be given for

employment generation, skill development and increase in income of

the people, so that the purchasing power goes up. We shall strive for

creation of an inclusive society by giving special focus on marginal and

deprived section of the society.

2.4 Externally Aided Projects

Assam as a special category State gets external assistance

through Government of India as 90% grant and 10% loan. This also helps

us to get acquainted with the global best practices and helps in transfer

of technology. In 2014 -15 plan budget an amount of Rs.2015.74 crore

has been earmarked for implementation of 13 Externally Aided Projects

in the State; which include- Assam Agricultural Competitiveness Project,

Assam State Road Project, Assam Integrated Flood & River Bank Erosion

Risk Management Project, Assam Power Sector Enhancement

Investment Programme, Guwahati Water Supply Project, Assam Urban

Infrastructure Investment Programme, Assam Project on Forest and Bio-

diversity Conservation, and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project.

2.5 Rural Infrastructure Development Fund Projects and Assam

Infrastructure Financing Authority Scheme.

Last year NABARD sanctioned Rs.481.34 crore for different

projects of PWD(R), Water Resources, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary,

Fishery, Irrigation, Soil Conservation & Sericulture Department. My

Government is giving lot of thrust in rural development, specially

development of rural infrastructure. For this objective we are also taking

loan from NABARD.

Till date AIFA has agreed in principle to sanction about Rs.1164

crore for Lakwa Replacement Power Project, Lower Kapili Hydro Power

Project, Augmentation of 132 KV substations and improvement of police

infrastructure. An amount of Rs.5.20 crore has also been approved for

appointment of consultancy services for feasibility study against

construction of a 6-lane bridge over the Brahmaputra connecting

Narengi with Kuruwa. Rs.29.59 crore has already been released by AIFA

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for land acquisition of the Indian Institute of Information Technology

(IIIT), Guwahati.

2.6 Institutional Finance.

(i) Government of Assam has been implementing the Interest

Subvention Scheme on crop loan to the farmers since 2006 – 07 in order

to make the crop loan available to the farmers at lower interest. The rate

of interest relief to the farmers was enhanced from 2% to 3% from the

year 2009 – 2010 and the maximum amount of crop loan up to which the

interest relief will be extended was enhanced from Rs.20,000 to

Rs.35,000 from the year 2011 – 12. During 2013 – 14, an amount of

Rs.3.17 crore was released to NABARD for disbursement of claims by

banks under the scheme and since 2006-07 till 2013 – 14, a total of

Rs.18.27 crore has been released. Government proposes to continue the

interest relief scheme during 2014 – 15.

(ii) Hon’ble Prime Minister of India is formally announcing the

‘Sampoorn Vittiya Samaveshan Mission’ in this Independence Day in

order to give a new thrust to the Financial Inclusion Plan. Under this new

plan, both rural and urban areas will be targeted and the project will be

implemented in a Mission Mode throughout the Country. The

programme will be launched at National, State and District levels shortly.

Under this programme, each household will be having at least one bank

account. These accounts will offer overdraft facility after satisfactory

operations. Further, these bank accounts would become the single point

for receipt of all Government benefits. The State Government will also

implement the project for which Implementation Committees at the

State and District level will be constituted.

3.1 Assam State Finance Commissions

Transfer of fund to PRIs and ULBs recommended by the Fourth

State Finance Commission(SFC) for the current financial year 2014-15 is

Rs.1090 crore consisting Rs.550 crore as tax devolution and Rs.540 crore

as grant.

The Fourth SFC also recommended a revised staffing pattern for

the panchayats and municipalities at all levels including the GMC.

Government has accepted these recommendations.

In order to ensure that the terms of the Central and State Finance

Commissions are in synchronization, Government of Assam constituted

the Fifth SFC well ahead of time on 05.03.2013. The Commission is

expected to submit its report by 31st

August, 2014.

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3.2 Central Finance Commission

The Thirteenth Finance Commission had recommended a total

transfer of Rs.57, 832.70 Crore to the State during the five year period

from 2010 to 2015. This includes Rs.52, 620.60 Crore as State’s share of

Central Taxes and Rs.5212.10 Crore as grants-in-aid. The State has so far

received Rs.39,427.92 Crore as share of Central Taxes and Rs. 3076.52

Crore as grants, which includes Rs.300.00 Crore rewarded as special

incentive in recognition of our prudent and efficient financial

management. In addition the 13th

Finance Commission has also waived

debt of Rs.306.02 Crore.

The 14th

Finance Commission visited the State from 27th

to 29th

November 2013. During this visit we had highlighted some special

problems of the State and had submitted a detailed memorandum. The

recommendations of the Commission are awaited.

4. INTERNAL SECURITY.

Time and again, I have been saying that peace and development

must go together. The law and order situation has improved due to our

persistent efforts. This has also helped in the process of development.

Our government will give high priority to improve the capability

and effectiveness of the police force. For this purpose all vacant posts

will be filled up. New posts will be created where necessary. A new

Police Academy will be set up for training facilities. Emphasis will be

given on modernization and development of infrastructure. An amount

of Rs.50 crore has been provided for immediate repair and renovation of

Police infrastructure in the field, especially in the two hill districts and

BTAD areas.

Suspension of operation agreement has been signed with 13

extremist outfits including the Ranjan Daimary led NDFB. The

Government is trying to bring the ULFA (I) and NDFB(S) to the

negotiation table.

For better crime detection and management, the Government

has decided to modernize the Crime Records Bureaus. Special emphasis

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will be given to control Women and child trafficking and to bring the

culprits to book in time. Women cells will be set up in all Police Stations.

The Government has decided to increase the ex-gratia grant for

the security personnel killed in action to Rs.20 lakh. About 200

appointments have already been made on compassionate grounds in the

last two years. Service condition of the Home Guards personnel will be

improved during the year.

It may be mentioned that Assam is one of the very few States

where the NRC,1951 was kept preserved. The works relating to updating

of National Register of Citizens, 1951 has already been started. The

Government is determined to complete the updating work within the

stipulated periods of 3 years and has made all arrangements for the

purpose. The number of Foreigners Tribunals has been increased from 36

to 100.

Immigration Visa and Foreigners Registration and Tracking under

National e-Governance Plan of the Government of India is under

implementation. This will help to track the movements of foreigners in

the country and will facilitate visa applications, extension & conversion.

Frequent and sporadic bandhs called by different organizations

not only causes great harassment to the peace loving citizens, including

students, patients, poor people dependent on the daily wages and such

others, but also disrupt normal economic activities of the State resulting

in loss of man days and income. According to one estimate, production

loss in the State due to Bandhs amounted to approximately Rs. 10,000

crore in 2012. In the larger overall interest of the State, I appeal to all

concerned not to call and not to respond to such Bandhs. Our

Government will also deal sternly with all Bandhs.

5. IMPLEMENTATION OF ASSAM ACCORD

In the Assam Bangladesh Border out of the 224 kms targeted

fencing works a distance of 218.170 kms have already been fenced. Out

of 200 kms. of roads, almost all length have already been completed.

To enable proper vigilance of the international border during the

night, action has been taken to provide floodlighting all along the Assam-

Bangladesh Border. 18 River police stations have been set up in Indo-

Bangladesh border for special patrolling in riverine areas.

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6. BORDER AREA DEVELOPMENT

I believe in fostering good relations with all our neighbouring

States, as it will help us to move ahead in the path of progress in a faster

manner. All border disputes may be settled amicably within the frame-

work of our constitution.

The bordering areas of our State are lacking in adequate socio-

economic infrastructure. Therefore, my Government has given added

emphasis for infrastructural development of these areas. An amount of

Rs. 5 crore is proposed under Plan for the current year for improvement

of BOP infrastructure. There is a need for fostering goodwill among the

communities living across the inter State border and for this a token

amount of Rs. 1 crore is being provided for organizing outreach

programmes by the Deputy Commissioners.

7. LEGISLATIVE AND JUDICIAL

I am happy to inform the August House that the Assam State

Legal Services Authority conducted many programmes on NREGA,

Mental Health Act, Anti Ragging Laws, Domestic Violence Act, Child

Labour Act and other welfare oriented legislations to make people aware

of their rights and duties. Quicker disposal of disputes leads to

improvement in social harmony. Lok Adalats play a significant role in this

regards. Since January, 2013, fifty one Lok Adalats were held in different

districts of Assam for quick resolution of disputes.

Five new courts at Amingaon have been established for setting

up a separate judiciary for Kamrup (R) District. The State Government is

considering a proposal to sanction 62 new Courts as proposed by the

Gauhati High Court.

8. HILL AREAS DEVELOPMENT

Government of Assam is firmly committed to the welfare and all-

round development of the hill areas and has already transferred more

autonomy to both the Autonomous Councils. Our Government has laid

more emphasis on developing the scenario of Agriculture, power supply,

potable water, health care, education, tourism, transport and

communication etc. for overall prosperity of these areas.

The recent major activities and achievements under Hill Areas of

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Assam include construction works of Assam Hills Medical College and

Research Institute at Diphu, construction of Joising Doloi Auditorium Hall

at Diphu, completion of Borjan Composite Irrigation Scheme and

Phumenn Phangso Irrigation Schemes in Karbi Anglong district.

For Financial Year 2014-15, an amount of Rs. 591.11 crore has

been proposed for implementation of various schemes under Normal

State Plan, HADP and other plans in the Hill Areas of Assam.

9. WELFARE OF PLAIN TRIBES AND BACKWARD CLASSES

Our Government is engaged in various activities for promoting all-

round development of SC, ST, OBC of the State. Several schemes will be

taken up for employment generation, education, health care,

infrastructure development and socio economic empowerment for

them. Hostel facilities and scholarships will be provided to boys and girls

of these communities.

For educational development of ST, SC and OBC students,

schemes like award of Pre-matric Scholarship, Post-matric Scholarship,

book-bank etc. have been implemented by our Government. Various skill

development training programmes for self employment are being

imparted to the unemployed youths. Government has been providing

financial support to BPL families of ST, SC and OBC for self employment

through income generating schemes.

For specific development of various ethnic communities under

the aegis of 6 Autonomous Councils Rs.216.45 crore has been proposed

for 2014 – 15.

An amount of Rs. 60 crore has been allocated to 19 Development

Councils. Our experience has shown that these councils are able to

create a positive impact in the socio-economic development of the

people through several interventions. Considering the same, my

Government will increase the financial support to these councils

substantially in the coming days, based on their relative performance.

The Government of Assam is actively considering creation of Garo

Autonomous Council for the Socio-economic Development of Garo

people living in Assam. The matter of creation of four more Development

Councils for Kumar, Madahi, Sut, and Hajong communities and a

separate development council for the SCs are also under the

consideration of Government

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Our Government has been giving high priority to development of

BTAD since its creation. An amount of Rs.501.60 crore has been allocated

for 2014-15 for BTAD.

Our Government has been paying special attention for

development of ST and SC people dominated areas by implementing

developmental schemes under TSP and SCSP. Rs.29 crore and Rs. 46

crore under TSP and SCSP have been provided for 2014-15.

10. WELFARE OF THE TEA & EX-TEA GARDEN TRIBES

Our Government has given priority to the welfare of the Tea

Tribes of Assam. Around 1, 12,000 Tea Tribes students have been

awarded Pre-Matric & Post-Matric Scholarships. During 2014 – 15, it is

targeted to cover around 50,000 beneficiaries under Family Oriented

Income Generating Schemes. Eligible beneficiaries will be provided with

grants of power tiller, Pump Set, Sewing Machine etc under this Scheme.

Around 4 Lakhs electric meters have been provided to Tea

Workers quarters. Financial subsidies to 700 youths for purchase of Taxi-

cab for self-employment have been granted. More than 28,000 low cost

sanitary latrines and 376 Water supply sources have been created in tea

gardens. A modern Auditorium has also been built at Lahowal in

Dibrugarh District.

For women empowerment, it is proposed to cover at least 1000

Tea Tribes women beneficiaries under the scheme of Training for

ANM/GNM, Bsc. Nursing and Para- medical staff. It is targeted to sponsor

100 girls to provide training in Beautician courses for their self-

employment. It is proposed to cover about 2,500 educated unemployed

youths under the scheme of Training and Distribution of Training

materials for self-employment. Special attention will be given for

implementation of the welfare measures under Assam Plantation Labour

Act including compliance to Minimum Wages Act and various labour

welfare measures. Government will consider a proposal for creation of a

Tea Tribes Development Council.

11. WELFARE OF MINORITIES

Our Government is committed to taking up a multi –pronged

strategy for removing the educational and socio-economic disadvantages

of the minority communities. Welfare of Minorities Department is

implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes of Pre-Matric Scholarship to

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the minority students in Assam. It is also implementing employment

generating schemes.

Our Government has provided a sum of Rs 1 crore to the Joint

State Haj Committee, Assam. for construction of the proposed Haj

Bhawan at Jalukbari. Construction of seven storied building with modern

technology for the Haj Bhawan is underway. Schemes like financial

assistance to physically handicapped for self employment, financial

assistance for development of Graveyards, book grant to selected

Madrassas etc are being implemented through Assam Board of Wakfs.

Various schemes like Distribution of 3 wheeler pick-up van,

Mobile repairing training, 2 years Pharmacist Course, Computer

Education Diploma Course, Family Restaurant and Small Business for the

linguistic minorities in Assam are being implemented by Assam Linguistic

Minorities Development Board.

My Government will consider a proposal for creation of separate

Development Councils for the Bengali and Hindi speaking people in the

State.

12. LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

I am deeply concerned about the unemployment situation in the

State. Therefore, a major thrust is being given for creation of Self

employment opportunities and skill upgradation of the unemployed

youth. For boosting up employable skills, Modular Employable Skill

courses have been implemented. Intake capacity of 28 ITIs has been

raised from 5860 to 7618. Employment Generation Mission has created

employment opportunities for 22,936 youths through Skill Development,

entrepreneurship development and livelihood activities.

The Assam Building & Other Construction Workers’ Welfare

Board has taken up Maternity Assistance, Medical Assistance, Death

benefit, Funeral Assistance and Marriage Assistance schemes for the

benefit of construction workers.

My Government will redefine the role of the employment

exchanges to provide guidance and counseling services to employment

seekers. We shall also review the labour laws to make labour safer and

more productive. I propose to set up one Skill Development Corporation

to make more and more youths employable in vocational streams.

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13. FOOD,CIVIL SUPPLIES AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

The State Government is ready to implement the National Food

Security Act (NFSA) with effect from 1st

September, 2014 subject to

clearance of Government of India. It will benefit about 2.52 crore

population. 5 kg rice will be provided to each member of selected

priority households and 35 kg rice to each eligible AAY household per

month at Rs. 3 per kg as per NFSA.

Initiative has been taken by the Government to increase the

storage capacity of godowns by 6.82 lakh MT to accommodate the

changing need.

Our Government intends to strengthen the activities and

resources of the PDS outlets. As an effective check against price rise,

2814 AAMAR DUKAN shops have been functioning throughout the State.

To streamline the Public Distribution System, the Government has

decided to operationalise the “Assam Food and Civil Supplies

Corporation Ltd” from this year.

14. EDUCATION :

14.1: EDUCATION (ELEMENTARY)

Improvement of enrolment position and quality of education are

the twin goals in elementary education. We have appointed about 9000

TET qualified teachers in elementary school in the year 2013. Untrained

teachers will be trained through Krishna Kanta Handique State Open

University. Free uniform will be provided to about 46 lakh learners of

Government and Provincialised Elementary Schools.6488 separate Girls’

toilets are proposed to be constructed during the year 2014-15. About

9880 Children with Special Needs are targeted to be provided Aids and

Appliances. The services of about 21 thousand teaching and non-

teaching staff have been provincialised by my Government during the

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financial year 2013-14. Eight Block-level Institutes of Teacher Education

will be established during 2014-15.

14.2 : SECONDARY EDUCATION

Our Government accords high priority for revamping the

education system in the State. Last year, the Secondary Education

department appointed 2763 TET qualified Graduate teachers. Our

Government has provincialised 1093 Secondary Schools including Junior

Colleges, during the financial year 2013-14.

The Scheme of Anundoram Barooah Award for providing

Computer/Laptops to the students and the visit to NASA by toppers of

HSLC/Madrassa Examination and NET Book for the students securing

50% and above marks in the HSLC Examination will be continued in the

current financial year.

Our Government distributed 140324 bicycles to BPL girl students

last year. For this scheme, an amount of Rs. 50 Crore is proposed for this

year.

Grant will be provided to Secondary schools which have

completed 50 years or more for construction of school buildings. An

amount of around Rs 5 crore is proposed under Plan for boosting

Madrassa Education in the State. Under the umbrella of Saakshar Bharat

Mission (SBM), Maulana Azad Taleem-e-Balighan, a new Centrally

Sponsored Scheme is proposed for this year for adults’ education of

Muslim community.

14.3: HIGHER EDUCATION

I am happy to inform this august House that the services of the

eligible employees of 134 venture colleges have been provincialised from

2013-14 till now.

An amount of Rs.45 crore has been proposed to be provided to

45 provincialised colleges for development of infrastructure during 2014

– 15. Necessary fund will be provided to the State Universities for

development of their infrastructure, including their IT infrastructure.

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12 Model Degree Colleges are being established in the State. To

produce technically skilled persons, six Community Colleges have been

established in existing polytechnics.

Apart from Golaghat, Karimganj and Dhemaji, three more new

engineering colleges are proposed to be established at Nalbari, Nagaon

and Udalguri.

An Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) has been

established at Guwahati under PPP mode. The Assam State Higher

Education Council has been constituted.

Academic activities of the Jorhat Women University is proposed

to be started from this academic year.

We feel pride in the fact that the Indian Institute of Technology,

Guwahati has been ranked among the top 100 emerging institutes of

higher learning in the world. We propose to tie up with IIT, Guwahati to

conduct research in areas of Assam’s economic development. I propose

to assist Gauhati University to set up one centre for International studies.

15. SPORTS & YOUTH WELFARE

Various schemes for promotion of Sports, Games and Youth

Welfare have been envisaged by our Government. It is proposed to

improve various facilities of sports infrastructure in the State. 16 Rajiv

Gandhi Sports Complex will be constructed at different development

blocks of the State during 2014 – 15.

For establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Mountaineering

and Adventure Sports about Rs. 46 lakh has been earmarked. Fund will

be provided for taking-up ‘Asom Mt. Everest Expedition 2015’. An

amount of Rs.1 crore has been proposed for holding State level Coaching

Camp, National School Games and State level (Inter District) School

Tournaments etc. Rs.1 crore will be provided for preparation and

participation of the State Contingent by Assam Olympic Association in

35th

National Games. A Football Academy and a Boxing Academy will also

be established in the State. An amount of Rs.76 lakh has been proposed

for awarding Sports Scholarship. 666 Playfields at Gaon Panchayat level

and 44 Playfields at Block level will be developed.

Necessary fund will be provided for executing different schemes

through State Level Advisory Committee for Student & Youth, which is

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being renamed as Student & Youth Development Council. The schemes

will be implemented in a mission mode.

16. CULTURAL AFFAIRS

Our Government is committed to preserve, promote and propagate the

State’s varied Art & Culture and its rich traditions and cultural heritage. Some

important projects undertaken by our Government are Renovation of

Rabindra Bhawans, Mahabahu Utsav 2015, Chandra Nath Sarma

Memorial Auditorium Hall, Purba Bharati Auditorium, Tinsukia Sanskritik

Samanya Kshetra, Sui Ka-Pha Samannay Khetra and Pratima Pandey

Baruah Cultural Centre.

An amount of Rs.2 crore has been provided in the budget against

the estimated cost of Rs.10 crore for construction of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika

Memorial at Jalukbari. It will be ensured that the project work does not

suffer from want of fund and is completed in time.

Works pertaining to 15 Jyoti Bishnu Sanskritik Prakalpas, Sri Sri

Anirudha Dev Cultural Complex and Sarat Chandra Singha Memorial

Cultural Complex have been undertaken. For Madhav Dev Kalakhetra at

Narayanpur an amount of Rs. 2 crore has been provided in the budget

against an estimated cost of Rs. 5 crore of the project.

Ras and Bhaona utsavs are not only part of the rich heritage of

Majuli but they also serve as a platform for peace and harmony among

different ethnic groups in the State. Special grants will be provided to

encourage such cultural activities this year. Provision has been made in

the budget for giving incentive for setting up of Mini Cinema Halls in

Block Head Quarters.

17. HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

Health & Family Welfare Department has made major strides in the

healthcare sector to make healthcare facilities easily accessible and affordable.

My Government has introduced Assam Arogya Nidhi (AAN) scheme for

providing financial assistance to BPL patients. Through Rastriya Bal Swasthya

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Karyakram, children will be screened for defects at birth, disabilities etc. The

Rastriya Swasthya Bima Yojana has been initiated to provide protection to BPL

families.

Efforts are on to bring down Maternal Mortality Rate and Infant

Mortality Rate in the coming years through improvement of institutional

delivery system and other measures. Efforts have also been made for full

immunization of children in the State.

‘Sneha Sparsha’ is a recent health care initiative for financial assistance

for specialized treatment like bone marrow transplant, Kidney transplant, Liver

transplant etc of the children below 12 years of age.

Model Hospitals have been made functional in several districts. The

Directorate of AYUSH has been made functional. The Hospital service of Tezpur

Medical College has started functioning. Establishment of new Medical Colleges

at Kokrajhar, Lakhimpur and Dhubri is under process.

We have decided to enhance the stipends of Post Doctorate and Post

Graduate students, Senior and Junior Resident doctors and internees of medical

colleges and dental colleges.

Added emphasis will be given for training of working doctors and

nurses and para medical staff. We propose to work out a scheme to provide

health insurance benefits to a wider section of people.

18. DRINKING WATER

Our Government has given highest priority to provide safe

drinking water to all. During the year 2014-15 it is proposed to provide

safe drinking water facilities to about 10,000 uncovered and quality

affected habitations, 487 schools and 5010 Anganwadi centres.

Several mega piped water supply schemes namely Greater

Rongbong, Greater Seleng, Greater Amlokhi Bharaguri, Greater Dergaon

Rural, Greater Integrated Osek Pathar, Combined Dighaljaruni and

Tapatjuri pwss have been technically cleared for implementation. 7 Large

Multi Village Schemes have been undertaken.

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This year added emphasis will be given to improve operation and

maintenance of the existing water supply schemes by ensuring better

participation, effective management, accountability and collection of

user charges from the community.

19. SOCIAL WELFARE

The main objective of the social welfare department is to improve

the quality of life of women, children, person with disabilities, old and

infirm. The department is implementing the flagship programme like

Integrated Child Development services scheme to extend the benefits to

0-6 yrs of children including pregnant women and lactating mothers. The

department has been implementing the Integrated Child Protection

Scheme for care and protection of children. Focused attention will be

given for improvement in capacity and quality of amenities and services

available in the Orphanages. More old age homes will be set up in the

districts in association with NGOs. To address the specific problems of

the forlorn and destitute old people, I propose to set up a Commission,

who will facilitate a life of safety, security and dignity for such old people.

Our Government is also implementing several schemes for

welfare and empowerment of women like Mukhya Mantrir Mahila

Samridhi Achoni, Baideo, Nabou, Nabuwari etc. A new scheme called

“One Stop Crisis Centre” has been launched for rescue and rehabilitation

of Women in distress. The centre will be a temporary shelter for the

women in distress and free medical service, Legal aids and other

assistances will be provided to them. This department is also

undertaking a scheme namely Mukhya Mantrir Jiban Jyoti Bima Achoni

for giving financial coverage to BPL families in case of certain Diseases

and accidental death.

Swabalamban scheme gives Pensionary benefits to any citizen of

India who are not covered by any existing Pension or Provident Fund

Scheme. Workers from the un-organized sector like Rickshawalas,

Thelawalas, farmers, and domestic help etc. are also eligible to join the

Scheme. Under the Scheme, Govt. of India gives Rs. 1000/- as incentive.

Assam Government is one of the very few States which also contribute

Rs. 1000/- per beneficiary per year, Besides covering Anganwadi

workers, Aasha workers etc, I want to extend the Scheme to the State

17

Home Guards, Casual/ fixed pay employees and economically weaker

sections of the Society in general.

20. AGRICULTURE

Due to the success in the agricultural sector, the Agriculture

Department has been able to secure three National Awards. Assam is

now surplus in rice production. This has been possible due to utilization

of modern technology, improved practices and hybrid seeds. This year,

Agriculture and Horticulture Department in convergence with Irrigation

Department, Soil Conservation Department and Rural Development

Department propose to introduce a new scheme, namely, Chief

Ministers’ Rural Economy Development Scheme. 60% of the works under

MGNREGA will be taken for creation of productive assets under

Agriculture sector. About one lakh water harvesting structures, 25,000

vermicompost units, 27,000 dairy related structure, 5000 nurseries and a

large number of schemes for micro and minor irrigation, fishery

plantation etc. are proposed to be taken in current year. In the field of

Farm Mechanization, providing Tractors and Power tillers at subsidized

rates will remain a core theme for this department. It is proposed to

issue up to 2 lakh Soil Health Cards to farmers this year.

The Union Government has laid great stress on organic cultivation in

the North East Region. I am happy to inform the House that in our State under

Chief Ministers’ organic farming Scheme, 4500 hectares of land have already

been brought under organic cultivation. This year, we propose to double the

area under organic farming. Horticulture Department will impart training to

15000 unemployed youths and provide them Green House and such other

facilities to make them self-employed.

21. IRRIGATION

Irrigation Department has created 8.52 lakh Hect of Irrigation

potential in the State. It is proposed to create 37167 Hect of Irrigation

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potential by completing Dhansiri Irrigation project and two other

ongoing irrigation projects in major and medium irrigation sector. 174

minor irrigation schemes will be completed for creating irrigation

potential of 58143 Hect. Under Command Area Development and Water

Management Programme it is proposed to cover an area of 7700 Hect

under irrigation.

All of us know that increase in agriculture production is closely

linked with availability of irrigation facilities and its proper use. Irrigation

Department will maintain close coordination with the Agriculture

Department in this regard.

22. FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT

Fish production in the State has reached a level of 2.67 lakh MT during

2013-14. New ponds will be constructed and potentially rich swamps and

marshy areas will be developed for aquaculture through Community and SHGs.

It is proposed to provide bicycle, hundi, drag net etc. to the SC fishermen.

Modern hygienic fish markets have been set up at Sulung (Nagaon) and Adabari

(Nalbari). Construction of 7 more hygienic fish markets will be taken up. To

make table fish available during fishing ban period, it is proposed to develop

fishery ponds covering 103 ha of water area for fish harvest in lean period. It is

proposed to cover 1 lakh fishermen under the scheme “Insurance of

Fishermen” against death and permanent disabilities in the current year.

23. ANIMAL HUSBANDARY & VETERINARY AND DAIRY DEVELOPMENT

Our Government has taken up several programmes for

enhancement of production of milk, meat and eggs while creating self

employment opportunities at the same time.

A new Government Goat Breeding Farm is being established at

Borhola. It is proposed to upgrade upto 20 % of the total indigenous

breedable cattle through artificial insemination. Our Government

proposes to induct high yielding dairy cattle from outside the State.

It is proposed to organize 600 more Dairy Cooperative Societies in

the State. For economic empowerment of women, cross bred heifers will

19

be distributed to women beneficiary. Under the Chief Minister’s Special

Package in Dhemaji district, 13 Commercial Dairy farms have been

undertaken.

Input supports like Cattle feed, Green fodder, Milk testing

equipments etc will be provided to dairy farmers during 2014-15.

24. PANCHAYAT & RURAL DEVELOPMENT

In the rural development sector, several flagship programmes for

employment, housing and infrastructure development for the rural areas

are being implemented.

During the year 2013-14, 12.62 lakh households were provided

jobs under MGNREGA and 144583 IAY houses have been constructed.

750501 persons were benefitted under the programme Indira Gandhi

National Old Age Pension Scheme, 61441 beneficiaries were provided

pension under Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme, and

23468 beneficiaries were covered in Indira Gandhi National Disability

Pension Scheme last year.

Assam has become the pioneer in implementation of e-PRI

module in the country by rolling-out almost all the programme modules

under e-PRI. All Gaon Panchayat, Anchalik Panchayat and Zilla Parishad

have registered their separate websites and these have been integrated

with National portal.

Under NRLM, 51940 Self Help Groups have been promoted and

3453 Village Organisation have been formed. During the current financial

year, the State Institute of Rural Development is planning to provide

employment to 20000 persons.

25. COOPERATION

A large number of Co-operative societies are involved in

Agricultural credit, Housing, Fishery, Dairy processing, Cottage and Small

Industries, etc. In order to boost up their efforts, our Govt has identified

several important schemes for implemention in the financial year 2014-

15. Creation of storage capacity for agricultural produces are an essential

need in the rural areas. Towards that goal, the Cooperation department

has taken up construction of godowns under the Rural Infrastructure

Development Fund and Chief Minister’s Special Scheme. Under the

World Bank funded Externally Aided Project, Assam Dairy Development

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Plan has been taken up. Government will also provide the necessary

support for infrastructure development of Assam Rajiv Gandhi University

of Cooperative Management. For empowering Women Cooperatives, our

Government has proposed to provide monetary grant to 2486 Women

Cooperatives.

26. CONTROL OF FLOOD AND EROSION

Water Resources department has got recommendation of

Government of India for 41 flood management schemes costing about

Rs.1387 crore. Approval for 8 schemes costing Rs.42 crore has been

received by the Water Resources Department under Chief Minister’s

special package in Barak valley. Another 7 schemes costing about Rs. 70

crore in Tinsukia district is under consideration. In view of the critical

erosion problem, channelization of river Brahmaputra, Barak and its

tributaries and reclamation of lost land has become highly necessary. I

propose to set up a Dredging Corporation for this purpose. The

department has initiated action to constitute a group of experts

comprising national and international experts for advising the

Government in this regard.

27. SOIL CONSERVATION

Our Government is implementing various schemes for protection of

surface soil as well as in-situ moisture Conservation in Agricultural Land and

Cash Crop cultivation etc.

During the year 2014 – 15, it is proposed to develop about 3 lakh 73

thousand hectares rain fed and waste land and 5400 Hectares of unproductive

cultivable land. The department have reclaimed 4445 Hectare of waste lands

during 2013 – 14. RCC check dams to increase agricultural productivity of about

1786 hectares gullied lands and development of about 3333 hectares of riverine

land have been proposed this year.

28. PUBLIC WORKS

Our Government has given priority for construction of all weather roads

as well as conversion of timber bridges to RCC Bridges. Since 2001 PWRD has

completed 22000 Km of all weather roads and 3549 RCC Bridges. About 5000

21

Km of all weather roads and 1300 RCC Bridge works are under various stages of

construction. Special schemes have been taken up for conversion of the

remaining timber bridges to RCC Bridges. Priority has also been given for

construction of roads along the inter State border. Special fund will be provided

for re-construction of flood damaged roads and drains. “Assam Roads Research

and Training Institute” has been set up at Guwahati to impart capacity building

training to the engineers.

Our Government is committed to integrated development of the

highway sector of the State. With the declaration of 12 new National Highways

in the State, the total length of NH now is 3717 km. Tender has been floated by

Central Government for 4-laning of NH -37 from Numaligarh to Dibrugarh.

Important by passes/ realignment works of Tinsukia, Mohanbari-Chabua,

Makum, Silchar, Katlichera and North-Lakhimpur are in progress.

Our Government has emphasized environment friendly construction.

For this, one MoU has been signed with ‘The Energy and Resources Institute’.

New Assembly Building at Dispur, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Memorial

at Jalukbari, Improvement of 1060 High School Buildings are some of the

major projects undertaken by the department. New major schemes like

New Engineering College at Dhemaji and 10 Model Degree Colleges

under Minority Sector will also be taken up.

29. ENERGY

With the acceleration of the pace of development and economic

activities during the last 12 years, the demand for power in the State has

increased phenomenally. Present peak demand of the State is around 1400 MW

and average power availability in peak and off peak is 1100 MW and 900 MW

respectively. Due to shortage of power, APDCL has to purchase power from

outside NE region. But due to constraint of transmission corridor from Eastern

Region to NER, APDCL has to impose forced load shedding. However, my

Government has taken up the matter with Ministry of Power of Government of

India to improve the power shortage problem.

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The electrification work in 8146 un-electrified and 12645 partially

electrified villages has been completed. Free electricity connections to more

than 11.20 lakhs BPL households have been given. Projects amounting to

Rs.1000 crore has been sanctioned for strengthening Transmission and

Distribution network in the State under Trade Development Fund. ADB funded

Assam Power Sector Enhancement Investment Programme is under

implementation for development of Transmission and Distribution system.

Improvement of electricity infrastructure in 67 towns has been taken up at a

cost of Rs.850 crore. Construction of Data Centre has been completed.

I take the pleasure to inform this August House that for immediate

replacement of damaged DTR to be distributed under the discretion of local

MLA and to maintain a buffer stock of DTR to be replaced in important places

like hospital, water supply schemes, educational institution etc., and an amount

of Rs 50 crore has been provided.

The commercial production of the 3 MW stage-II of Myntriang SHEP has

started in March’14. Commissioning of the 6 MW stage-I is expected to be done

by July’15. Detail Project Report of 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydro Electric project

for an estimated cost of Rs.1490 crore has been submitted to the Central

Electricity Authority for Techno Economic Clearance. Emphasis has been given

by my Government for generation of Solar Power to supplement the sources of

conventional energy.

30. PRINTING AND STATIONERY

The Government printing Press at Guwahati is going to be modernised with

enhancement of capacity to cope up with the growing demand of Government

printing works. Fund have been allocated for strengthening the building of

Assam Government press and for providing modern and hygienic facilities for

workers.

31. MINES AND MINERALS

Petroleum exploration licence has been granted by our

Government for two Exploration Blocks. Our Government has also

granted for the first time in the State one Block for exploration of Coal

Bed Methane, jointly to a public sector & a private sector company.

Assam Mineral Development Corporation Ltd., has entered into an MOU

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with M/s Birla Corporation Ltd. in 2014 for setting up of a cement plant

in Assam. To supplement the shortfall of conventional power supply, the

Assam Hydrocarbon & Energy Company Ltd., has initiated an ambitious

project of installing solar powered cells atop the houses in the urban

areas. Our Government has proposed to take up the geological

investigation programmes of detailed exploration of limestone in Dima

Hasao District, and Coal in Karbi Anglong District and Hydrogeological

investigation of groundwater during the year 2014-15. I have taken up

the matter of payment of Oil royalty on pre-discounted price by OIL and

ONGC with Government of India.

32. INDUSTRIES & COMMERCE

Our Government is committed to enhance the industrial

productivity and production in the State. In order to achieve the desired

industrial growth of 9%, I propose to allocate required fund for

implementation of different schemes of micro, small and medium

enterprises, with special emphasis on women, weaker section and

traditional artisans and first generation entrepreneurs. A Flagship

programme named “Multi-disciplinary skill development” has been

launched to impart training on employable trades.

I propose to provide a soft loan at a nominal interest rate and

hand-holding facilities for the first generation micro entrepreneurs in the

form of “Angel Fund” during 2013-14. Rs. 10 crore is proposed for

implementation of the Scheme during the current year. I also propose to

provide special incentive for employment to local youth by the way of

supply of machinery and raw materials under “Mukhya Mantrir

Karmajyoti Achoni”. I propose to provide special State capital investment

subsidy for women SC/ST entrepreneurs. Provision has also been made

for supply of raw material grant for Bell Metal Artisan and for

promotional scheme of handicraft.

As large tracts of land is not available for creating Industrial

infrastructure like National Manufacturing & Investment Zone (NMIZ),

my Government has laid emphasis on creation of smaller industrial

pockets across the State like “Mega Food Park” at Tihu and “Bamboo

Park” at Choygaon etc. A scheme for industrial land bank for

development of industrial clusters will be worked out this year.

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33. HANDLOOM, TEXTILE AND SERICULTURE

The Handloom sector is providing direct and indirect employment

to about 25 lakh people. For mitigating the problems faced by the

weavers in marketing hand woven cloth, it is proposed to establish

handloom trade centres at Dibrugarh, Guwahati and Handloom

showrooms in different district head quarters. It is proposed to assist

1800 weavers of SHG during the current year 2014-15. Under Integrated

Handloom Development Schemes 17200 weavers have been assisted

with training and grant-in aids. About 1500 handloom trainees pass out

every year from the 105 handloom training centers/institutions of the

department. The department will work out a package of aid and

incentives to ensure that the passed out trainees can start producing on

their own and become economically independent. Health insurance

coverage was extended to 11, 30,448 weavers during last three years. It

has been decided to implement 92 projects Cluster Development

schemes. For enhancement of production and productivity of handloom

fabrics, our Government has been distributing yarn to poor weavers as

working capital. It is proposed to cover about 1, 00,000 weavers during

the financial year 2014-15 with an estimated cost of Rs.15 crore for this

scheme. 16 yarn banks are proposed to be sanctioned during 2014-15.

34. INFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY

The e-Governance initiatives in the State will make delivery of services

speedy and help in checking corruption. Steps have been taken for

implementing the State wide Rollout of e-District programme to connect the DC

Office, the Sub-Division Office and the Block Offices with citizens. Assam State

Wide Area Network (ASWAN) is already operational with connectivity to 287

Points of Presence. To enable complete connectivity of all offices, my

Government is implementing a project to connect 400 government offices at

the initial stage.

State Data Centre which is expected to be commissioned by 31st

March,

2015 will act as a centralized repository of all departmental data and hosting

platform of all Government services. The “Assam Online Portal & Secretariat

Less Paper Office” project in the Assam Secretariat is in advanced stages of

25

implementation. A ‘Cyber Tower’ will be constructed at Guwahati, to provide

ready to operate space to the industries under one roof.

35. SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

The Science and Technology department has undertaken several

projects for popularization of Science & Technology and for creating

scientific temperament among the people. Keeping in line with this

philosophy, my Government has initiated the construction of a Science

City, Guwahati Biotech Park Incubation Centre and three new

planetariums at North Lakhimpur, Nalbari and Kokrajhar. 250 bighas of

land has been earmarked for the proposed science city near Sonapur.

Once completed, the science city will not only enhance the urge for

scientific enquiry among the school children but it will also act as a major

destination of tourists.

Protection of bio-diversity and suitable response to climatic

change are areas of concern for us. For this purpose we are collaborating

with ‘The Energy Research Institute (TERI) for setting up a University in

the State. Block Resource Mapping of Dimoria and Mairabari blocks

have been carried out using high resolution satellite data. Mapping

under Agricultural resource information system of Kamrup (rural and

metro) using remote sensing and GIS has also been completed.

36. URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Our Government is committed for strengthening of urban

infrastructure and services. Our Government has taken up 106

infrastructure projects for small & medium towns involving about Rs.876

crore. It is proposed to prepare 45 Master Plans by adopting advanced

technologies.

National Urban Livelihood Mission to reduce the poverty of

Urban Poor households would be implemented in 26 district head-

quarter Towns. Under Assam Bikash Yojana, Rs.3.80 crore has been

allocated for providing mechanical devices like garbage cleaning, road

26

sweeping machines, etc. Rs. 2.85 crore has been allocated for

implementation of Low Cost Sanitation Programme.

The Detail Project Report submitted for Urban Water Supply for

Digboi, Simaluguri and Silapathar are under final stage of consideration

for approval of Government of India.

Assam State Housing Board has been allocated around Rs.4 crore,

for implementation of Janata Housing Scheme.

37. GUWAHATI DEVELPMENT

Government is making all out effort for development of Guwahati

city.

Work on Feasibility Study and Preparation of DPR for Metro Rail

Project for Guwahati City has started. A Sewerage Project for Guwahati

has been proposed at an estimated cost of Rs.1700 crore. It is proposed

to provide affordable housing for 10000 urban poor of Guwahati. For

easing traffic congestion in the city it is proposed to construct Road

under-bridges in 5 places of level crossings between Kamakhya &

Guwahati station. All the major Roads, Lanes and Bye-Lanes of Guwahati

are proposed to be provided with Street Lights.

It is proposed to create a Scientific Storm Water Drainage System

in Guwahati for mitigating the problem of water logging and artificial

flood. It is proposed to ensure protection of the water channels and

other water bodies of Guwahati from being further encroached. It is

proposed to establish one Institute of Urban Development and Research

to cater to the needs of Capacity Building of Urban Local Bodies.

38. ENVIRONMENT & FOREST

Our Government is committed to protect the valuable forests and

for extending the green cover of the State. For this purpose several

programmes for afforestation, plantation of medicinal and aromatic

herbs have been taken.

My Government has taken firm steps to protect wildlife by

providing sophisticated arms to Forest Protection Forces to counter the

poachers. The population of Rhino has increased to 2544 in the year

27

2013 from 2201 in 2009. Presence of Assam Forest Protection Force will

be effectively enhanced for wild life protection.

It is proposed to create 12000 hectares of plantation and to

distribute more than one crore seedling during 2014-15. The Assam State

Biodiversity Board proposes to constitute 25 more Biodiversity

Management Committees during the financial year 2014-15. Plantation

of over 8370 hect. areas has been created during 2014-15. Firewood

plantation over 10000 hect. through JFMCs will be taken up. “Capacity

Development for Forest Management and Personnel Training Project”

assisted by Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) is being

implemented. A Project on Forest and Biodiversity Conservation has

been started with financial assistance from the French Development

Agency.

39. TOURISM

Our Government has undertaken various infrastructure developmental

projects for promotion of Tourism. Inflow of domestic and international tourist

has increased significantly to 1 crore 35 lacs and 52 thousand respectively

during the year 2013 – 14. The statue of Lachit Borphukan is being erected in

the middle of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The construction of “Taj Vivanta”

a 5 star hotel in Guwahati is expected to be completed soon. 690 unemployed

educated youths have been provided financial assistance for purchase and

operation of tourist vehicles. Our Government has also initiated steps for

creation of tourism facilities in Tourist Circuits and destination.

The successful holding of “Ambubachi Mela” in the famous Shakti

Shrine, Kamakhya Temple in 2013 and 2014, the Tirobhava Tithi of Srimanata

Sankardeva at Madhupur Satra, Urs festival at Poa Mecca, Hajo, Royal Kathina

Festival in Dibrugarh District, Doul utsav at Batadrawa and Barpeta and the

Death Anniversary of the Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur at Dhubri are some of the

important events under Religious Tourism.

40. TRANSPORT

One of my priorities is to provide economical, efficient and passenger

friendly transportation to the commuters of the State. During last three years

ASTC purchased 460 buses for rural connectivity. Exclusive ladies buses have

been introduced in Guwahati city recently. Procurement of 110 rural

28

connectivity buses at a cost of Rs. 40 crore has been sanctioned. Another 400

buses have been sanctioned under JNURM for Guwahati city.

Road safety measures are being strengthened through enforcement of

laws and promotion of Road Safety awareness and education programmes. E-

Transport project “Sarathi” and “Vahan” is under implementation in all District

Transport Offices of Assam.

Besides normal ferry services, the Department is also operating

Commercial Services for development of River Tourism with the services of

river Cruising facility and floating restaurant. To benefit people who are

dependent on Inland Water Transport, I propose to set up an Inland Waterways

Corporation to provide safe, improved and comfortable Ferry services, besides

cost effective movement of cargo.

A proposal has been submitted for investment of Rs.3875 crore for the

development of IWT Assam under assistance of World Bank. Another proposal

for infrastructure Development of IWT services on River Brahmaputra and

Barak at the cost of Rs. 37 crore is under process. The IWT Assam has

introduced the GPRS based vessel Tracking System in ferry operation and SMS

Monitoring System for passengers’ safety.

I also propose to introduce a scheme to provide 30% rebate to

the senior citizens in all ASTC buses.

41. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

I am aware of the problem faced by the public leaders and

officials and common people visiting different places for official works,

medical care and educational needs of children for want of adequate

accommodation in State guest houses outside the State. Increase in

physical capacity and improvement in facilities are the only solutions to

this important issue. In this regard, my Government has taken the

initiatives to construct new guest houses and increase the capacity of

existing houses.

Substantial works have been completed for Assam Bhawans at

Bangalore and Vellore. Reconstruction of Assam House, New Delhi has

been taken up. Construction works of multi storied Assam House at

Kolkata is going on. Extension works of Assam House, Shillong and

Mumbai are nearing completion.

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42. PERSONNEL

Our government has taken steps to put immovable property

returns details of IAS/ACS officers in the Government website to

promote transparency. The Government has also made mandatory for all

Class-I officer to submit their Immovable and Movable Property Returns

latest by 31st

January every year. We propose to comprehensively review

the manpower requirements in different departments for long term

planning.

43. ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS & TRAINING

Our Government is committed to impart transparency and

accountability in the delivery of services to the people. The Government

has enacted the Assam Right to Public Services Act 2012 towards this

goal. Under this Act, 56 important services under 14 Departments have

been notified for timely delivery. The Administrative Staff College has

been empowered with functional autonomy to enable it to design its

own training courses.

44. PENSION & PUBLIC GRIEVANCES

At present, nine Nationalised Banks are authorised for payment

of pension to the Government pensioners. Our Government has decided

to issue Identity Cards to all interested retired State Government

employees, which will be beneficial in many ways.

Pension Adalats for Kamrup District was held in August, 2013 and

423 long pending pension cases were settled. More Pension Adalats will

be held during the current financial year to settle long pending pension

cases in other places also.

To ensure quick finalization of Pension cases of the retired Govt.

employees I propose to set up a Pension Tribunal, whom the retired

employees may approach for redressal of their grievances.

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45. INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

The Information and Public Relation Department will use

different media of mass communication to bring the people closer to the

Government. The department will take leadership in the mass awareness

programme in health, education, literacy, legal aid, communal harmony

etc. Emphasis has been given to promote and showcase the cultural

diversity of the land and its people.

30 bighas of land has been allotted for Lakshminath Bezbaruah

Government Institute of Mass Communication & Printing Technology

and Research. For Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Photo & Film Archive & Research

Centre 15 bighas of land has been allotted.

Under Journalists’ Medical Welfare Scheme, financial assistance

was given to 12 ailing working media persons for their treatment during

2013-14. For the journalists who unfortunately leave this world while

serving, a scheme will be introduced for contributing to the welfare of

the bereaved families.

46. PUBLIC ENTERPRISES

Our Government has initiated the Public Sector Reform measures

financed by the Asian Development Bank. So far 11 PSUs have executed MoUs

with their Administrative Departments. For empowerment of women, our Govt

has taken steps to include woman member into the Board of Directors of all

State PSUs. Steps have been taken for providing financial grants to motivate the

PSUs to introduce proper safety measures in work places and for reducing the

occupational hazards. Financial assistances are also being provided to the PSUs

for obtaining of ISO Certification for improvement of their work culture.

47. REVENUE & DISASTER MANAGEMENT

To provide a better environment for work an amount of Rs.12

crore has been provided for the construction and renovation of the

building of circle offices and residences of Circle officers. As the existing

land revenue in the present day context is too low, it is proposed to

31

enhance land revenue to Rs.30/- per bigha in case of rural areas. The

land revenue of town land will also be enhanced commensurately. A

pilot Project in the districts of Kamrup Metro and Kamrup was

introduced for collecting revenue through e-stamp selling and

Government is extending roll out of e-stamping throughout the State.

Initiative has also been taken up for computerization of Mouza Offices

during the year 2014- 15. Two new Revenue Circles namely Sapekhati

Revenue Circle in Sivasagar District and Thelamara Revenue Circle in

Sonitpur District have been created recently. 37 Revenue Circles in the

districts within BTAD and neighbouring districts have been re-organized

for administrative convenience. It has been observed that, the major

causes of flood and water logging in Guwahati is due to rampant

encroachment in hill areas, felling of trees and earth cutting. Therefore,

our Government has decided not to give settlement of land to any

person in hill land in and around Guwahati.

48. EXCISE

About Rs.616 crore was collected as Excise revenue and Rs.434

crore collected as VAT on liquor during 2013-14. The target for current

financial year is fixed at about Rs.709 crore. The department has

detected 30,503 illicit liquor cases during 2013-14. The department is

also taking the initiative to implement e -Governance for better office

management with modernization.

49. Hon’ble Speaker Sir, during the last 13 years, we have been

announcing and implementing many new, innovative and important

schemes including those announced at the time of presentation of the

Vote on Accounts on February 13, 2014 for the socio-economic

development of the State. Many of those schemes have been completed,

some are under implementation, but there are some schemes which

could not be started for various reasons. Before completion of the

present term of the State Govt, for which only less than two years are

left, I would like to see that all our announcements are brought to their

logical conclusions during the next two years of time except those

schemes which could not be implemented due to various problems

32

including some inherent constraints impeding their implementation.

Such schemes will be suitably modified or substituted by new schemes.

To increase the pace of sanction and implementation of various

schemes, the Finance department delegated full power of sanction upto

Rs. 10 crore to the Administrative Departments last year. Therefore,

about 90% of the plan proposals of the departments can be sanctioned

by the Administrative Departments themselves. It may be mentioned

that since all Central Sector funding will be routed through the State

budget from this year, full power of sanction has been delegated to the

administrative departments to ensure timely sanction and

implementation of the schemes and proper utilization of fund. To ensure

proper utilization of fund I shall introduce third party independent

evaluation in major departments.

Having said this, I would like to submit before this august house

that the next two years will be the years of consolidation of the fruits of

development and maximum emphasis will be given for timely completing

schemes already announced earlier. However, I am also aware of the fact

that the people of Assam, having returned us for the third successive

term to this house with resounding victory, expect a lot from us. Very

recently I had held two rounds of formal interactions with some of the

highly respected Academicians, Intellectuals, Retired Civil servants and

Social and Public workers as well as representatives of trade and

industry. While I had been tremendously benefited by their valuable

suggestions, it also brought into the forefront the high level of

expectations and aspirations of the public from the State Government.

Therefore, I like to announce further the following new schemes for the

financial year 2014-15. While specific budget provision has been made

against most of these schemes, a common pool of fund has been kept for

the remaining ones. Subject to satisfactory progress of work and fund

utilization, necessary additional fund may be provided during this year

itself.

New schemes:

(1) This year the State is commemorating and celebrating the 150th

birth Anniversary of Sahityarathi Laxminath Bezbarua. To show our

deep regard and gratitude to this stalwart of Assam, alongwith the

33

numerous Socio- cultural organizations and institutions, I propose

to make provision for construction of a bronze statue of Laxminath

Bezbarua and for this purpose an amount of Rs.10 Lakh has been

provided. I shall like to inform the August House that my

Government is constantly pursuing with the Government of

Odisha for acquiring the residential house of Sahityarathi

Lakshminath Bezbarua at Sambalpur for preserving it as a befitting

memorial and heritage.

(2) Introduction of farm mechanization has helped to increase

agricultural production. Therefore, I propose to provide 20 Power

Tillers each to farmers in every Assembly Constituency at

subsidized rates. An amount of Rs. 15 cr. has been provided in the

present budget for the purpose .

(3) To encourage activities of Women Self Help Groups, I propose to

provide cash assistance of Rs. 5000 each to 1 lakh women SHGs in

the State. An amount of Rs. 15 crore has been provided for this

purpose. I also propose to provide sewing machines to women for

commercial use, the focus being on the un-married women and

widows.

(4) Safe drinking water helps in preventing many water borne

diseases. Towards this goal, I propose to provide for 6300 spot

water sources through-out the State. Each LAC will be provided 50

such water sources.

(5) In spite of having the requisite skills and expertise, poor weavers

in our State are not able to make full use of the same for want of

raw-materials. Similarly, many poor people do without blankets in

winter. Therefore, I propose to make available yarn and blankets

to 20,000 poor beneficiaries in each L.A.C. An amount of Rs.50

Crore has been provided in the budget for the present.

(6) I am pained by the pathetic conditions and the worries of the

hundreds of erosion affected and landless families across the

State. I propose to continue to provide financial assistance and 2

bundles of GCI Sheets to such poor families to help rebuild their

houses.

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(7) There are several Socio-cultural institutions in our State, which

have been contributing to social welfare, harmony and progress.

These institutions have historical, religious, academic and tourist

importance as well. Sriguru Tegbahadur Saheb Guruduwara at

Dhubri, Gurudwara at Fancy Bazar, Guwahati, Dargah of Ajan

Fakir, Madhupur Satra, Batadrawa Satra,Barpeta Satra, Jain caves

near Pancharatna, Shiva Doul at Sibsagar etc. are some such

community institutions of pride in our State. I propose to provide

special grants of Rs.5 lakh each for improvement of infrastructure

and facilities for visitors in such important places.

(8) Agricultural production and productivity increase with the use of

improved inputs like certified seeds and appropriate manures.

Therefore, I propose to provide financial assistance of Rs.5000 to

such farmers covering about 1000 poor and marginal families in

each LAC.

(9) I propose to construct 1000 km all weather road both for Urban

and Rural areas including Char areas. Besides 500 new RCC bridges

will be constructed.

(10) Considering the educational backwardness of the Tea and Ex-tea

tribe communities, I propose to make special allocation of about

Rs.43 crore for advancement of their education.

(11) To make treatment affordable, essential medicines will be made

available free of cost for the poor at all Government hospitals. The

facilities in the subdivisional and District Hospitals, specially those

of the children and labor wards and ICUs will be improved.

(12) For taking special care of the School children, special health check-

up programme will be chalked out. Synergy will be developed with

the NGOs’ and voluntary organizations for this. Health cards will

be issued to the children.

(13) I propose to set up one NCC Academy in the State and for that

purpose, necessary assistance and approval from the Central

Government will be sought.

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(14) It is a welcome step that several private Universities and Colleges

have come up in the recent years demonstrating quality and an

environment for competitiveness for better standards. Therefore, I

propose to introduce a package of incentives for encouraging

private investment in the higher education sector.

(15) In respect of Medical Education, I propose to initiate steps for

setting up of one Dental College in Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical

College at Barpeta and one institution of physical medicine and

Rehabilitation in Jorhat Medical College.

(16) I propose to set up Agricultural Education, Networking and

Entertainment Hubs in the block headquarters. These centers will

provide a common platform for sharing and dissemination of

knowledge regarding Agriculture and the allied subjects along

with facilities for entertainment.

(17) A special scheme will be taken up for Preservation of ancient

monuments and Ponds in Sibsagar district and other places.

(18) A Special scheme will be taken up for improvement of the

stadiums, including Sibasagar Stadium.

(19) Special and improved industrial and Agricultural kits will be

provided to small artisans and farmers to improve productivity.

(20) As many High Schools don’t have good Science Laboratories, I

propose to introduce Mobile Science Laboratories in the State.

(21) To honour the versatile personality of Late Moinul Hoque

Choudhury, I propose to initiate an award for showing outstanding

success in the field of modern Agricultural techniques and

progressive farming.

(22) To make local products at village and small scale level competitive,

I propose to set up common facilities centre for production of

handicraft, bamboo and other items in pockets of such economic

activities. Similarly, common facilities centers will be set up for

fruit processing.

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(23) For construction of the Axom Sahitya Sabha Bhawan at Kohima an

assistance of Rs.10 lakh will be provided. For publication of the

book titled “Axomiya Sahityar Sampurna Itihas” an amount of

Rs.15 lakh will be provided.

(24) I propose to launch a comprehensive scheme in collaboration with

Government of India for sustainable rehabilitation of the erosion

affected people.

(25) To prepare our youths for various competitive examinations,

including Civil Services, Defence services, various para-military

services, Banking and Insurance services as well as employment

under various Central PSUs, I propose to set up a Training Institute

of National standard.

(26) With the passage of time some restructuring of the Tea Industry in

Assam, has become necessary. In collaboration with Government

of India, I propose to launch a Comprehensive programme for

revival and rejuvenation of the Tea industry with special focus on

small industries.

(27) Implementation of schemes and projects under the Rs.1000 crore

package for Barak Valley has started. This will continue.

50. MOTOR VEHICLE TAX

A large number of affluent people are buying expensive and very

expensive luxury cars. I want to apply higher rate of taxes on such

vehicles as compared to the less expensive cars and motor cycles. I have

advised Transport Department to come up with a duly calibrated

progressive taxation structure for this purpose.

51. TAX PROPOSALS

I would like to make the following tax proposals:-

(i) In order to give relief to the common people, I propose to exempt

chimney and parts of Kerosene lamp from VAT. At present kerosene

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lamp is exempted from VAT whereas its parts and chimney is taxable

@ 14.5%.

(ii) For students, I propose to reduce rate of VAT in parts of writing

instrument from 14.5% to 5%.

(iii) Further I also propose to reduce rate of VAT on accessories of bi-cycle,

tri-cycle and cycle rickshaws from 14.5% to 5% to give some relief to

common people.

(iv) In order to improve women health and hygiene, I propose to reduce

rate of VAT on sanitary napkins from current 14.5% to 5%.

(v) In order to encourage Green Technology I wish to exempt renewable

energy devices and spare parts from VAT.

(vi) Currently fabricated goods of iron and steel are manufactured mostly

by small industries which have to pay 14.5%. In order to boost MSME

sector and encourage local youths, I propose to reduce rate of VAT on

fabricated iron and steel goods from 14.5% to 5%.

(vii) To promote industrialization in the State, especially the MSME sector,

I propose to allow concessional rate of entry tax on all raw materials

used by local industries if such raw materials are not available locally. I

will instruct Industries Department to draw up a scheme for this

purpose.

(viii) In order to give some relief to the small salaried person, I propose to

raise minimum exemption of Profession tax from Rs.40,000/- per

annum to Rs. 1,20,000/-. From now onwards, a person getting gross

salary up to Rs.10,000/- per month need not to pay any profession

tax. A person having gross salary of more than Rs. 10,000/- but less

than Rs. 15,000/- per month shall have to pay Rs. 150/- per month. A

person having gross salary of Rs. 15,000/- or more but less than Rs.

25,000/- per month shall have to pay Rs. 180/- per month and only

those persons who have gross salary of Rs. 25,000/- or more per

month shall be liable to pay tax at the highest slab i.e. Rs. 208/- per

month.

Further, similar slabs shall be applicable also for other

professionals. Accordingly, where the annual gross income of a

Medical practitioner, Technical and professional consultants, Legal

practitioner etc is more than Rs. 1,20,000/- but less than Rs.

1,80,000/- such professionals shall have to pay Rs. 1800/- per year,

where the annual gross income is Rs. 1,80,000/- or more -but less

than Rs. 3,00,000/- they shall have to pay Rs. 2160/- per year and

only where annual gross income is Rs. 3,00,000/- or more these

professionals shall be liable to pay tax at the highest slab i.e. Rs.

2500/- per year.

(ix) For Tea sector, I propose the following incentives:-

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(a) I propose to extend the deduction allowed @ Rs.6/- per kg of the

tea exported through Inland Container Depot (ICD) for another

one year.

(b) For the benefit of tea labourer of the state, I also propose to

make necessary amendment in the Plantation Development

Fund Scheme, 1994 so as to allow withdrawal of fund from the

Plantation Development Fund for meeting the expenditure in

regard to construction of labour houses.

These proposals allowing exemption will cost State exchequer around

Rs. 40.00 crores. In order to compensate the loss of Government revenue, I

wish to make the following proposals:-

(i) I propose to increase the rate of VAT on motor parts and accessories

from 5% to 14.5%.

(ii) I propose to increase the rate of VAT on natural gas from 12% to 14.5%.

(iii) Nowadays a number of items are coming from neighbouring countries

for use and consumption on which no tax is leviable, which is affecting

local trade and industries. In order to increase State revenue as well

as to safeguard local trade and industry, I propose to levy entry tax on

import.

(iv) In order to discourage consumption of tobacco, we have already

banned chewing tobacco. Now I propose to increase the rate of VAT

on smoking Tobacco from 25% to 30% in the interest of health of the

people of the state.

However rate of VAT on tobacco in the neighbouring states

are less, hence increase in the rate of VAT may to lead to some trade

diversion. Therefore, I also propose to take up the matter with the

neighbouring states in order to have a uniform rate of VAT in all the

North Eastern States.

2. I propose to draw up a Liquidation Act for outstanding arrear dues for one

more time to clear up long outstanding dues.

3. In order to facilitate all types of dealers as well as tax administration, I

propose to implement issuance of statutory forms electronically.

4. We have two Checkgates at the entry point from West Bengal to Assam,

one at Srirampur and another at Boxirhat. A state of the art Composite

Checkgate has been established at Srirampur with multiple lay byes and

common facilities like common building, computerization etc. We

propose to integrate the functioning of all the Departments in this

Checkgate in this financial year. It is now proposed to construct another

state of the art Composite Checkgate at Boxirhat (Chagolia) for which

financial sanction has already been accorded and we propose to expedite

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the work so that the functioning of the Composite Checkgate at Boxirhat

can be started at the earliest.

52. BUDGET ESTIMATES.

Now Sir, I come to the Budget Estimates for the Financial Year

2014 – 15. The five year medium term fiscal plan and other statements

required to be placed in terms of the relevant provisions of the Assam

Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2005 have been

placed in this August House in a separate booklet.

The budget estimates of 2014 – 15 show a receipt of Rs. 57311.39

crore under the consolidated fund of the State. Out of this Rs.52696.81

crore is on Revenue Account and the remaining Rs.4614.58 crore is

under Capital Account. I have shown the estimated receipt in the

consolidated fund from different sources at Table-I. After adding the

receipt of Rs.329365.94 crore under Public Account and of Rs.50.00

crore under Contingency Fund, the aggregate receipts amount to

Rs.386727.33 crore. As against this, total expenditure from the

consolidated fund of the State in 2014 – 15 is estimated at Rs. 58104.54

crore of which Rs.48631.30 crore is on Revenue Account and Rs.9473.24

crore is on Capital Account. The estimates of grant-wise expenditure

from the Consolidated Fund during 2014 – 15 has been shown in Table -

2.

Taking into account the expenditure of Rs.329958.56 crore under

Public Account and Rs.50.00 crore under Contigency Fund, the

aggregate expenditure for the year is estimated at Rs.388113.10 crore.

Thus, estimated transactions during the year will result in an estimated

deficit of Rs.1385.77 crore. This, together with the opening deficit of

Rs.972.14 crore, the financial year 2014 – 15 is expected to end with an

estimated closing deficit of Rs.2357.91 crore.

With these words, Mr. Speaker Sir, I commend this budget to the

House.

JAI AAI ASOM

JAI HIND