Guwahati: On Sunday, the Assam cabinet officially designated the transgender community in the state as a socially and educationally backward class. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this decision during a press conference, stating that identity cards will only be issued to residents of Assam and that this recognition will not apply to trans individuals who are in the state for work. This classification aligns with the directives from the Supreme Court, aimed at enhancing the rights and status of the transgender community. Local district commissioners will be responsible for verifying the status of applicants seeking these identity cards.
In addition to this significant move, the cabinet introduced a new initiative, named ‘Shradhanjali’, to assist in transporting the bodies of students and young workers who die while employed in other states. The government will prioritize returning the remains of low-income workers who pass away outside Assam. Sarma mentioned that the government has committed to bringing back the bodies with respect, particularly if these individuals die in difficult situations. The ‘Shradhanjali’ scheme will enable a more streamlined and lawful transportation process starting from October 1, primarily benefiting those engaged in low-wage job sectors and excluding cases of deaths during medical treatments outside the state.
The Assam Police’s special branch will appoint a DIG-level officer to oversee the body return process. Families can report cases through local authorities, police, or by calling emergency services. Notably, around 15 bodies have already been returned to Assam this year, even prior to the formal implementation of this initiative.
Moreover, the cabinet approved the formation of a Rabha development council for the Rabha community residing outside the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council area. This council is tasked with executing welfare programs aimed at fostering socio-economic, educational, and cultural development for the community.
The cabinet also took important steps concerning mineral exploration, approving rules for the Assam State Mineral Exploration Trust (SMET) to explore minor minerals like sand, gravel, and limestone. Additionally, a site has been allocated to Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Limited for a 900 MW pumped storage project in West Karbi Anglong, with an investment of Rs 5,400 crores, contributing to the state’s goal of achieving a 2 GW capacity by 2030.
Another initiative launched by the cabinet is the Assam Industrial and Green Growth Fund, established with Rs 3,000 crores in funding to support renewable energy, green infrastructure, agro-tech, tourism, and MSMEs. Furthermore, the cabinet agreed to fill half of the supervisor posts with experienced Anganwadi workers, while directly recruiting for the rest.
Lastly, the cabinet has designated two wetlands in Goalpara and Urpad, as well as Hasila Beel, as proposed reserve forests. An increase in the honorarium for cook-cum-helpers under the PM POSHAN scheme was also approved, effective from October.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/id-cards-for-transgenders-originally-from-assam-sarma/articleshow/122009136.cms
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Publish Date: 2025-06-23 05:56:00
