Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the state will implement austerity measures in support of the armed forces and their families. Speaking at a press conference to mark his four-year tenure, Sarma outlined the cabinet’s decision to refrain from holding seminars, conferences, workshops, and commemorative events due to the current circumstances.
He emphasized the importance of looking after families of soldiers while they are deployed, stating that district officials will be tasked with identifying these families and establishing support groups to assist them. “We want to ensure that loved ones of our soldiers do not have to worry about their family members while they are on the battlefield,” he said.
Sarma highlighted the presence of army and air force camps across Assam and the north-eastern states, noting that troop movements are ongoing. He instructed district commissioners to liaise closely with armed forces officials to facilitate these movements.
While the decisions were made amidst tensions related to the India-Pakistan conflict, a subsequent agreement was reached between the directors general of military operations from both nations to cease all firing and military actions by Saturday evening. The cabinet resolved to activate coordination mechanisms at both district and state levels to streamline logistics and movement of defense forces, ensuring efficient civic services by enhancing collaboration among civil, police, and emergency response units.
The Chief Minister called for communal harmony, urging citizens to avoid any remarks that could demoralize armed forces personnel. He reinforced the notion of unity, stating, “Pakistan seeks to sow discord among us. We must not let them succeed.” Sarma requested that all citizens maintain a collective Indian identity during this pivotal time, emphasizing support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces.
In further measures, the cabinet mandated that hospitals keep updated lists of voluntary blood donors, especially those with rare blood types, and review medical inventories to ensure preparedness for emergencies. Additionally, state ministers and officials will curb foreign travel and non-essential trips, with government employees on leave potentially being recalled if necessary.
There will be no procurement of new vehicles, except for police needs, and expenditures for cultural events, official meals, and entertainment will be minimized. Large gatherings will be postponed or transitioned to virtual formats, and all events involving expenditures will be deferred. The production of promotional materials and advertisements will be halted unless absolutely necessary.
Finally, the CM specified that no processions for winning candidates in the upcoming panchayat polls will be permitted after the results are announced.
Categories: Assam, Armed Forces, Government
Tags: Himanta Biswa Sarma, Austerity Measures, Community Support, India-Pakistan Conflict
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/will-take-care-of-soldiers-families-assam-announces-austerity-measures-amid-indo-pak-conflict-1211745-2025-05-11?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-05-11 09:18:00
