Guwahati, March 24: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced plans to establish a betel nut industry in the state, a move aimed at preventing the state’s produce from being sold outside and benefiting local farmers. The Chief Minister made the announcement on the floor of the Assembly, citing the support of two industrialists who have signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to set up betel nut units in Assam.
Sarma’s statement came as part of his address on the changes brought about by his government in the state’s institutions and departments. He pointed out that several legislators have approached him, asking why he does not permit Assam’s betel nut to be sold in other states, highlighting the negative impact it has on farmers and cultivators. The Chief Minister’s inquiry was straightforward: “Why can we not establish a betel nut industry in Assam itself?”
The Chief Minister underlined that the government is committed to transparency, citing several initiatives, including the Assam Direct Recruitment Exams (ADRE), the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, and the crackdown on corruption and illegal activities such as drugs and illicit liquor. He also touched on the issue of rhino poaching, saying that the number of recorded cases has drastically reduced since the current government came to power.
Sarma questioned the previous government’s handling of the issue, asking if the rhino horns were used to finance elections. “During the previous regime, there were up to 20 cases of rhino poaching. Now, it has reduced to one or two a year. Why were so many rhinos killed in the state? Did they not have the political will to stop the menace of poaching? Was it to help finance elections?” he asked.
The Chief Minister also updated the Assembly on the government’s efforts to address the Umrangso rat hole mining tragedy, which claimed several lives. He assured that the government is committed to ensuring justice and transparency, employing new technology, including satellite imaging, and setting up the Justice Anima Hazarika Commission to investigate the matter.
In his address, Sarma made it clear that his government would not condone any form of corruption and would ensure that those responsible for the tragedy are brought to justice. The Chief Minister’s comments reflect the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the well-being of the people of Assam.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/betel-nut-industry-can-be-set-up-in-assam-himanta-in-assam-assembly-1572158
Category : Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2025-03-24 16:56:00
