Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita on Friday, March 27, urged voters in Assam to back a BJP-led “double-engine government,” saying continued alignment between the state and the Centre is essential for sustained development, economic growth and security. Speaking at a press conference in Titabor, Margherita framed the appeal as a plea for long-term progress under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s leadership.
Margherita told reporters that people across Assam-from villages to towns-want a government that delivers visible development and a “Viksit Assam.” “We are conducting this press briefing to convey a clear message as to why a double-engine government is necessary,” he said, adding that voters prefer representatives who can work in coordination with the Centre so central schemes reach the grassroots.
The minister argued that opposition-ruled states show the consequences of a lack of such coordination. He alleged that projects in West Bengal have suffered despite Centre sanctions totalling Rs 93 crore, citing delays in railway expansion funds utilisation and stalled land acquisition. He made a similar claim about Punjab, saying approval of Rs 10,000 crore for highway expansion has not moved forward because land acquisition remains stalled.
Margherita also raised concerns about implementation of health schemes, asserting that beneficiaries in states without a double-engine government are not receiving full advantages. “In states without a double-engine government, schemes like Ayushman Bharat are not reaching people effectively due to administrative hurdles and lack of intent,” he alleged.
Highlighting Assam’s achievements, the minister credited the state government with rapid economic growth and improvement in per capita income, and said even the Reserve Bank has recognised Assam’s fast-paced development. He pointed to concrete infrastructure gains-expanded road networks, bridges over the Brahmaputra, elevated corridors and initiatives in semiconductor-related projects-as outcomes of Centre-state cooperation. “These achievements reflect what a coordinated effort between the Centre and state can deliver,” he said.
Turning to the previous Congress regime, Margherita accused it of corruption and inefficiency, saying there was a time when people allegedly had to pay to secure jobs. He contrasted that with what he described as more transparent, development-focused governance under Himanta Biswa Sarma. Reiterating his appeal, he asked for the people’s “blessings and mandate” to continue the “journey of transformation” through a double-engine government.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/double-engine-govt-key-to-assams-growth-security-pabitra-margherita-1609919
Category: Assam
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Publish Date: 2026-03-27 18:05:00
