The Assam government’s flagship self-employment scheme, the Chief Minister’s Atmanirbhar Asom Abhijan (CMAAA), has come under scrutiny after a performance review found that only about half of the beneficiaries from the programme’s first phase had effectively used the funds provided. Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises Minister Bimal Borah told reporters at Janata Bhawan on Friday that of the 25,277 individuals selected under CMAAA 1.0 in 2023, only 12,976 qualified for further financial assistance following a comprehensive evaluation.
Borah said beneficiaries were assessed on efficiency and eligibility, and those who did not meet the criteria will undergo a fresh reassessment before any further disbursements or actions are taken. The first phase included 221 beneficiaries in the professional category-doctors, engineers, pharmacists, chartered accountants, MBA graduates and other qualified professionals-with the remainder in the non-professional category.
Under the scheme, non-professional beneficiaries received Rs 1 lakh each as the initial instalment to set up enterprises, while professional beneficiaries were given Rs 2.5 lakh. Launched on September 23, 2023, the CMAAA aims to boost entrepreneurship among Assam’s youth, foster self-reliance and generate employment through sustainable business ventures by providing financial support and institutional backing.
Expressing concern over the review, Borah warned that the scheme’s objectives cannot be met unless recipients use the assistance responsibly and convert it into viable businesses. He urged beneficiaries to treat the initiative seriously, cautioned against misuse of funds-which may lead to removal from Bihu committees-and said banks would release subsidies or additional support only after beneficiaries demonstrate tangible progress and effective implementation.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/assam-reviews-cmaaa-beneficiaries-only-half-qualify-for-second-phase-assistance-1426172-2026-07-18?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-07-18 08:09:00
