Hon’ble Speaker Sir, I now rise to present... 1. financial year 2014 – 15.

1.
Hon’ble Speaker Sir, I now rise to present the State budget for the
financial year 2014 – 15.
2.1
Economic Environment
Before I proceed to present my budget proposals, I would like to
apprise the Hon’ble Members of this August House about the overall economic
environment and financial position of the State.
The global economic growth came down from 3.2% in 2012 to 2.9% in
2013. Growth rate of India, however, has shown some improvement to 4.7%, in
2013-14 from 4.5% in 2012-13. I am happy to inform this August House that the
projected growth rate of Assam for 2013-14 is 6.88% which was 5.87% for
2012-13 as per the latest Central Statistical Organization estimates. This is
considerably higher than the national average and many other States. Contrary
to the trend elsewhere of expenditure compression, our State is in a
comfortable position to add further momentum to development activities. This
has been possible because of our prudent financial management.
According to advance estimate for 2013-14, the per capita
income has registered a growth rate of 4.63 percent at constant prices
and 14.53 percent at current prices in 2013-14 over the previous year.
Our per capita Net State Domestic Product stood at Rs.46,354 in 2013 –
14 compared to National per capita income of Rs. 74,920 during the
same period. Therefore, all out effort is required to be taken to bring our
per capita income to the National level.
2.2
State Finances
Our State finances have been stable for about last ten years. The basic
financial parameters of revenue and fiscal deficits have improved significantly.
We are able to disburse salary and pension in time and flow of fund for
investment has remained smooth. We have been able to attain a revenue
surplus of Rs.1554 Crore in 2012 – 13. According to CAG Report for the Financial
Year 2012-13 our fiscal deficit was 1.06% of GSDP as against FRBM target of 3%.
It may be mentioned that Government of India’s fiscal deficit for the same year
1
was 4.8% of GDP. Similarly our debt GSDP ratio as on 31.3.2013 was 22.91%,
which is well below the FRBM target of 28.4%. The tax revenue of the State
increased two-fold in four years from Rs.4,150 crore in 2008-09 to Rs.8,250
crore in 2012-13, indicating an average annual growth rate of 19.76%. While
commending the fiscal management of the State Government CAG has
mentioned in its report that “….the State witnessed a marked improvement in
key fiscal indicators. The improvement in the fiscal situations during the
current year was achieved by the State by pursuing the fiscal correction and
consolidation process under a rule based fiscal framework coupled with larger
devolution and transfer by the F.C-XIII…….”
As per 6th Economic Census ending March,2013 Assam has achieved the
following distinctions – (1) Among the major States, Assam has obtained first
position in creating employment and employment generating establishment
and fastest growth in non agricultural and non governmental employment
sector (excluding Crop production, Public Administration, Defence, Paramilitary
or Security Services). (2) In the growth of employment Assam has ranked No.1
among the major states achieving 85.55% employment in rural areas and
65.11% in urban areas. (3) Assam’s total export of commodities from various
LCS/ICD etc. rose from Rs.1469.73 crore in 2009 – 10 to Rs. 2465.56 crore in
2013-14. (4) Assam has ranked first position in providing small loan/micro credit
through Government programmes such as PMEGP/KVIC in the whole country
during 2013-14 by achieving a growth of 179.35%.
However, the overall growth prospects at national level remains
an area of concern. The Central Government has constituted the Seventh
Pay Commission. We shall also have to revise our pay structure in
consonance with the Central Pay scales in due course of time. Due to
these developments and other unavoidable circumstances we will have
to be extremely careful to maintain a healthy and stable financial regime.
2.3
Annual Plan
Hon’ble Members are aware that Assam’s 2014-15 Annual plan
discussion have not yet taken place and hence the plan size is yet to be
finalized. However, for implementation of plan schemes, a detailed
tentative plan outlay of Rs.21811.65 Crore for 2014-15 has been worked
out.
I would like to inform the August House that the Centrally
Sponsored Schemes have been restructured by Government of India.
From current year, the Central share under the Centrally Sponsored
2
Schemes will be routed through the consolidated fund of the State.
Accordingly the central share for Centrally Sponsored Schemes have
been provided in the Budget.
Under the plan programmes, priority will be given for
employment generation, skill development and increase in income of
the people, so that the purchasing power goes up. We shall strive for
creation of an inclusive society by giving special focus on marginal and
deprived section of the society.
2.4
Externally Aided Projects
Assam as a special category State gets external assistance
through Government of India as 90% grant and 10% loan. This also helps
us to get acquainted with the global best practices and helps in transfer
of technology. In 2014 -15 plan budget an amount of Rs.2015.74 crore
has been earmarked for implementation of 13 Externally Aided Projects
in the State; which include- Assam Agricultural Competitiveness Project,
Assam State Road Project, Assam Integrated Flood & River Bank Erosion
Risk Management Project, Assam Power Sector Enhancement
Investment Programme, Guwahati Water Supply Project, Assam Urban
Infrastructure Investment Programme, Assam Project on Forest and Biodiversity Conservation, and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project.
2.5
Rural Infrastructure Development Fund Projects and Assam
Infrastructure Financing Authority Scheme.
Last year NABARD sanctioned Rs.481.34 crore for different
projects of PWD(R), Water Resources, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary,
Fishery, Irrigation, Soil Conservation & Sericulture Department. My
Government is giving lot of thrust in rural development, specially
development of rural infrastructure. For this objective we are also taking
loan from NABARD.
Till date AIFA has agreed in principle to sanction about Rs.1164
crore for Lakwa Replacement Power Project, Lower Kapili Hydro Power
Project, Augmentation of 132 KV substations and improvement of police
infrastructure. An amount of Rs.5.20 crore has also been approved for
appointment of consultancy services for feasibility study against
construction of a 6-lane bridge over the Brahmaputra connecting
Narengi with Kuruwa. Rs.29.59 crore has already been released by AIFA
3
for land acquisition of the Indian Institute of Information Technology
(IIIT), Guwahati.
2.6
Institutional Finance.
(i) Government of Assam has been implementing the Interest
Subvention Scheme on crop loan to the farmers since 2006 – 07 in order
to make the crop loan available to the farmers at lower interest. The rate
of interest relief to the farmers was enhanced from 2% to 3% from the
year 2009 – 2010 and the maximum amount of crop loan up to which the
interest relief will be extended was enhanced from Rs.20,000 to
Rs.35,000 from the year 2011 – 12. During 2013 – 14, an amount of
Rs.3.17 crore was released to NABARD for disbursement of claims by
banks under the scheme and since 2006-07 till 2013 – 14, a total of
Rs.18.27 crore has been released. Government proposes to continue the
interest relief scheme during 2014 – 15.
(ii) Hon’ble Prime Minister of India is formally announcing the
‘Sampoorn Vittiya Samaveshan Mission’ in this Independence Day in
order to give a new thrust to the Financial Inclusion Plan. Under this new
plan, both rural and urban areas will be targeted and the project will be
implemented in a Mission Mode throughout the Country. The
programme will be launched at National, State and District levels shortly.
Under this programme, each household will be having at least one bank
account. These accounts will offer overdraft facility after satisfactory
operations. Further, these bank accounts would become the single point
for receipt of all Government benefits. The State Government will also
implement the project for which Implementation Committees at the
State and District level will be constituted.
3.1
Assam State Finance Commissions
Transfer of fund to PRIs and ULBs recommended by the Fourth
State Finance Commission(SFC) for the current financial year 2014-15 is
Rs.1090 crore consisting Rs.550 crore as tax devolution and Rs.540 crore
as grant.
The Fourth SFC also recommended a revised staffing pattern for
the panchayats and municipalities at all levels including the GMC.
Government has accepted these recommendations.
In order to ensure that the terms of the Central and State Finance
Commissions are in synchronization, Government of Assam constituted
the Fifth SFC well ahead of time on 05.03.2013. The Commission is
expected to submit its report by 31st August, 2014.
4
3.2
Central Finance Commission
The Thirteenth Finance Commission had recommended a total
transfer of Rs.57, 832.70 Crore to the State during the five year period
from 2010 to 2015. This includes Rs.52, 620.60 Crore as State’s share of
Central Taxes and Rs.5212.10 Crore as grants-in-aid. The State has so far
received Rs.39,427.92 Crore as share of Central Taxes and Rs. 3076.52
Crore as grants, which includes Rs.300.00 Crore rewarded as special
incentive in recognition of our prudent and efficient financial
management. In addition the 13th Finance Commission has also waived
debt of Rs.306.02 Crore.
The 14th Finance Commission visited the State from 27th to 29th
November 2013. During this visit we had highlighted some special
problems of the State and had submitted a detailed memorandum. The
recommendations of the Commission are awaited.
4.
INTERNAL SECURITY.
Time and again, I have been saying that peace and development
must go together. The law and order situation has improved due to our
persistent efforts. This has also helped in the process of development.
Our government will give high priority to improve the capability
and effectiveness of the police force. For this purpose all vacant posts
will be filled up. New posts will be created where necessary. A new
Police Academy will be set up for training facilities. Emphasis will be
given on modernization and development of infrastructure. An amount
of Rs.50 crore has been provided for immediate repair and renovation of
Police infrastructure in the field, especially in the two hill districts and
BTAD areas.
Suspension of operation agreement has been signed with 13
extremist outfits including the Ranjan Daimary led NDFB. The
Government is trying to bring the ULFA (I) and NDFB(S) to the
negotiation table.
For better crime detection and management, the Government
has decided to modernize the Crime Records Bureaus. Special emphasis
5
will be given to control Women and child trafficking and to bring the
culprits to book in time. Women cells will be set up in all Police Stations.
The Government has decided to increase the ex-gratia grant for
the security personnel killed in action to Rs.20 lakh. About 200
appointments have already been made on compassionate grounds in the
last two years. Service condition of the Home Guards personnel will be
improved during the year.
It may be mentioned that Assam is one of the very few States
where the NRC,1951 was kept preserved. The works relating to updating
of National Register of Citizens, 1951 has already been started. The
Government is determined to complete the updating work within the
stipulated periods of 3 years and has made all arrangements for the
purpose. The number of Foreigners Tribunals has been increased from 36
to 100.
Immigration Visa and Foreigners Registration and Tracking under
National e-Governance Plan of the Government of India is under
implementation. This will help to track the movements of foreigners in
the country and will facilitate visa applications, extension & conversion.
Frequent and sporadic bandhs called by different organizations
not only causes great harassment to the peace loving citizens, including
students, patients, poor people dependent on the daily wages and such
others, but also disrupt normal economic activities of the State resulting
in loss of man days and income. According to one estimate, production
loss in the State due to Bandhs amounted to approximately Rs. 10,000
crore in 2012. In the larger overall interest of the State, I appeal to all
concerned not to call and not to respond to such Bandhs. Our
Government will also deal sternly with all Bandhs.
5.
IMPLEMENTATION OF ASSAM ACCORD
In the Assam Bangladesh Border out of the 224 kms targeted
fencing works a distance of 218.170 kms have already been fenced. Out
of 200 kms. of roads, almost all length have already been completed.
To enable proper vigilance of the international border during the
night, action has been taken to provide floodlighting all along the AssamBangladesh Border. 18 River police stations have been set up in IndoBangladesh border for special patrolling in riverine areas.
6
6.
BORDER AREA DEVELOPMENT
I believe in fostering good relations with all our neighbouring
States, as it will help us to move ahead in the path of progress in a faster
manner. All border disputes may be settled amicably within the framework of our constitution.
The bordering areas of our State are lacking in adequate socioeconomic infrastructure. Therefore, my Government has given added
emphasis for infrastructural development of these areas. An amount of
Rs. 5 crore is proposed under Plan for the current year for improvement
of BOP infrastructure. There is a need for fostering goodwill among the
communities living across the inter State border and for this a token
amount of Rs. 1 crore is being provided for organizing outreach
programmes by the Deputy Commissioners.
7.
LEGISLATIVE AND JUDICIAL
I am happy to inform the August House that the Assam State
Legal Services Authority conducted many programmes on NREGA,
Mental Health Act, Anti Ragging Laws, Domestic Violence Act, Child
Labour Act and other welfare oriented legislations to make people aware
of their rights and duties. Quicker disposal of disputes leads to
improvement in social harmony. Lok Adalats play a significant role in this
regards. Since January, 2013, fifty one Lok Adalats were held in different
districts of Assam for quick resolution of disputes.
Five new courts at Amingaon have been established for setting
up a separate judiciary for Kamrup (R) District. The State Government is
considering a proposal to sanction 62 new Courts as proposed by the
Gauhati High Court.
8.
HILL AREAS DEVELOPMENT
Government of Assam is firmly committed to the welfare and allround development of the hill areas and has already transferred more
autonomy to both the Autonomous Councils. Our Government has laid
more emphasis on developing the scenario of Agriculture, power supply,
potable water, health care, education, tourism, transport and
communication etc. for overall prosperity of these areas.
The recent major activities and achievements under Hill Areas of
7
Assam include construction works of Assam Hills Medical College and
Research Institute at Diphu, construction of Joising Doloi Auditorium Hall
at Diphu, completion of Borjan Composite Irrigation Scheme and
Phumenn Phangso Irrigation Schemes in Karbi Anglong district.
For Financial Year 2014-15, an amount of Rs. 591.11 crore has
been proposed for implementation of various schemes under Normal
State Plan, HADP and other plans in the Hill Areas of Assam.
9.
WELFARE OF PLAIN TRIBES AND BACKWARD CLASSES
Our Government is engaged in various activities for promoting allround development of SC, ST, OBC of the State. Several schemes will be
taken up for employment generation, education, health care,
infrastructure development and socio economic empowerment for
them. Hostel facilities and scholarships will be provided to boys and girls
of these communities.
For educational development of ST, SC and OBC students,
schemes like award of Pre-matric Scholarship, Post-matric Scholarship,
book-bank etc. have been implemented by our Government. Various skill
development training programmes for self employment are being
imparted to the unemployed youths. Government has been providing
financial support to BPL families of ST, SC and OBC for self employment
through income generating schemes.
For specific development of various ethnic communities under
the aegis of 6 Autonomous Councils Rs.216.45 crore has been proposed
for 2014 – 15.
An amount of Rs. 60 crore has been allocated to 19 Development
Councils. Our experience has shown that these councils are able to
create a positive impact in the socio-economic development of the
people through several interventions. Considering the same, my
Government will increase the financial support to these councils
substantially in the coming days, based on their relative performance.
The Government of Assam is actively considering creation of Garo
Autonomous Council for the Socio-economic Development of Garo
people living in Assam. The matter of creation of four more Development
Councils for Kumar, Madahi, Sut, and Hajong communities and a
separate development council for the SCs are also under the
consideration of Government
8
Our Government has been giving high priority to development of
BTAD since its creation. An amount of Rs.501.60 crore has been allocated
for 2014-15 for BTAD.
Our Government has been paying special attention for
development of ST and SC people dominated areas by implementing
developmental schemes under TSP and SCSP. Rs.29 crore and Rs. 46
crore under TSP and SCSP have been provided for 2014-15.
10.
WELFARE OF THE TEA & EX-TEA GARDEN TRIBES
Our Government has given priority to the welfare of the Tea
Tribes of Assam. Around 1, 12,000 Tea Tribes students have been
awarded Pre-Matric & Post-Matric Scholarships. During 2014 – 15, it is
targeted to cover around 50,000 beneficiaries under Family Oriented
Income Generating Schemes. Eligible beneficiaries will be provided with
grants of power tiller, Pump Set, Sewing Machine etc under this Scheme.
Around 4 Lakhs electric meters have been provided to Tea
Workers quarters. Financial subsidies to 700 youths for purchase of Taxicab for self-employment have been granted. More than 28,000 low cost
sanitary latrines and 376 Water supply sources have been created in tea
gardens. A modern Auditorium has also been built at Lahowal in
Dibrugarh District.
For women empowerment, it is proposed to cover at least 1000
Tea Tribes women beneficiaries under the scheme of Training for
ANM/GNM, Bsc. Nursing and Para- medical staff. It is targeted to sponsor
100 girls to provide training in Beautician courses for their selfemployment. It is proposed to cover about 2,500 educated unemployed
youths under the scheme of Training and Distribution of Training
materials for self-employment. Special attention will be given for
implementation of the welfare measures under Assam Plantation Labour
Act including compliance to Minimum Wages Act and various labour
welfare measures. Government will consider a proposal for creation of a
Tea Tribes Development Council.
11.
WELFARE OF MINORITIES
Our Government is committed to taking up a multi –pronged
strategy for removing the educational and socio-economic disadvantages
of the minority communities. Welfare of Minorities Department is
implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes of Pre-Matric Scholarship to
9
the minority students in Assam. It is also implementing employment
generating schemes.
Our Government has provided a sum of Rs 1 crore to the Joint
State Haj Committee, Assam. for construction of the proposed Haj
Bhawan at Jalukbari. Construction of seven storied building with modern
technology for the Haj Bhawan is underway. Schemes like financial
assistance to physically handicapped for self employment, financial
assistance for development of Graveyards, book grant to selected
Madrassas etc are being implemented through Assam Board of Wakfs.
Various schemes like Distribution of 3 wheeler pick-up van,
Mobile repairing training, 2 years Pharmacist Course, Computer
Education Diploma Course, Family Restaurant and Small Business for the
linguistic minorities in Assam are being implemented by Assam Linguistic
Minorities Development Board.
My Government will consider a proposal for creation of separate
Development Councils for the Bengali and Hindi speaking people in the
State.
12.
LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT
I am deeply concerned about the unemployment situation in the
State. Therefore, a major thrust is being given for creation of Self
employment opportunities and skill upgradation of the unemployed
youth. For boosting up employable skills, Modular Employable Skill
courses have been implemented. Intake capacity of 28 ITIs has been
raised from 5860 to 7618. Employment Generation Mission has created
employment opportunities for 22,936 youths through Skill Development,
entrepreneurship development and livelihood activities.
The Assam Building & Other Construction Workers’ Welfare
Board has taken up Maternity Assistance, Medical Assistance, Death
benefit, Funeral Assistance and Marriage Assistance schemes for the
benefit of construction workers.
My Government will redefine the role of the employment
exchanges to provide guidance and counseling services to employment
seekers. We shall also review the labour laws to make labour safer and
more productive. I propose to set up one Skill Development Corporation
to make more and more youths employable in vocational streams.
10
13.
FOOD,CIVIL SUPPLIES AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
The State Government is ready to implement the National Food
Security Act (NFSA) with effect from 1st September, 2014 subject to
clearance of Government of India. It will benefit about 2.52 crore
population. 5 kg rice will be provided to each member of selected
priority households and 35 kg rice to each eligible AAY household per
month at Rs. 3 per kg as per NFSA.
Initiative has been taken by the Government to increase the
storage capacity of godowns by 6.82 lakh MT to accommodate the
changing need.
Our Government intends to strengthen the activities and
resources of the PDS outlets. As an effective check against price rise,
2814 AAMAR DUKAN shops have been functioning throughout the State.
To streamline the Public Distribution System, the Government has
decided to operationalise the “Assam Food and Civil Supplies
Corporation Ltd” from this year.
14.
EDUCATION :
14.1: EDUCATION (ELEMENTARY)
Improvement of enrolment position and quality of education are
the twin goals in elementary education. We have appointed about 9000
TET qualified teachers in elementary school in the year 2013. Untrained
teachers will be trained through Krishna Kanta Handique State Open
University. Free uniform will be provided to about 46 lakh learners of
Government and Provincialised Elementary Schools.6488 separate Girls’
toilets are proposed to be constructed during the year 2014-15. About
9880 Children with Special Needs are targeted to be provided Aids and
Appliances. The services of about 21 thousand teaching and nonteaching staff have been provincialised by my Government during the
11
financial year 2013-14. Eight Block-level Institutes of Teacher Education
will be established during 2014-15.
14.2 : SECONDARY EDUCATION
Our Government accords high priority for revamping the
education system in the State. Last year, the Secondary Education
department appointed 2763 TET qualified Graduate teachers. Our
Government has provincialised 1093 Secondary Schools including Junior
Colleges, during the financial year 2013-14.
The Scheme of Anundoram Barooah Award for providing
Computer/Laptops to the students and the visit to NASA by toppers of
HSLC/Madrassa Examination and NET Book for the students securing
50% and above marks in the HSLC Examination will be continued in the
current financial year.
Our Government distributed 140324 bicycles to BPL girl students
last year. For this scheme, an amount of Rs. 50 Crore is proposed for this
year.
Grant will be provided to Secondary schools which have
completed 50 years or more for construction of school buildings. An
amount of around Rs 5 crore is proposed under Plan for boosting
Madrassa Education in the State. Under the umbrella of Saakshar Bharat
Mission (SBM), Maulana Azad Taleem-e-Balighan, a new Centrally
Sponsored Scheme is proposed for this year for adults’ education of
Muslim community.
14.3: HIGHER EDUCATION
I am happy to inform this august House that the services of the
eligible employees of 134 venture colleges have been provincialised from
2013-14 till now.
An amount of Rs.45 crore has been proposed to be provided to
45 provincialised colleges for development of infrastructure during 2014
– 15. Necessary fund will be provided to the State Universities for
development of their infrastructure, including their IT infrastructure.
12
12 Model Degree Colleges are being established in the State. To
produce technically skilled persons, six Community Colleges have been
established in existing polytechnics.
Apart from Golaghat, Karimganj and Dhemaji, three more new
engineering colleges are proposed to be established at Nalbari, Nagaon
and Udalguri.
An Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) has been
established at Guwahati under PPP mode. The Assam State Higher
Education Council has been constituted.
Academic activities of the Jorhat Women University is proposed
to be started from this academic year.
We feel pride in the fact that the Indian Institute of Technology,
Guwahati has been ranked among the top 100 emerging institutes of
higher learning in the world. We propose to tie up with IIT, Guwahati to
conduct research in areas of Assam’s economic development. I propose
to assist Gauhati University to set up one centre for International studies.
15.
SPORTS & YOUTH WELFARE
Various schemes for promotion of Sports, Games and Youth
Welfare have been envisaged by our Government. It is proposed to
improve various facilities of sports infrastructure in the State. 16 Rajiv
Gandhi Sports Complex will be constructed at different development
blocks of the State during 2014 – 15.
For establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Mountaineering
and Adventure Sports about Rs. 46 lakh has been earmarked. Fund will
be provided for taking-up ‘Asom Mt. Everest Expedition 2015’. An
amount of Rs.1 crore has been proposed for holding State level Coaching
Camp, National School Games and State level (Inter District) School
Tournaments etc. Rs.1 crore will be provided for preparation and
participation of the State Contingent by Assam Olympic Association in
35th National Games. A Football Academy and a Boxing Academy will also
be established in the State. An amount of Rs.76 lakh has been proposed
for awarding Sports Scholarship. 666 Playfields at Gaon Panchayat level
and 44 Playfields at Block level will be developed.
Necessary fund will be provided for executing different schemes
through State Level Advisory Committee for Student & Youth, which is
13
being renamed as Student & Youth Development Council. The schemes
will be implemented in a mission mode.
16.
CULTURAL AFFAIRS
Our Government is committed to preserve, promote and propagate the
State’s varied Art & Culture and its rich traditions and cultural heritage. Some
important projects undertaken by our Government are Renovation of
Rabindra Bhawans, Mahabahu Utsav 2015, Chandra Nath Sarma
Memorial Auditorium Hall, Purba Bharati Auditorium, Tinsukia Sanskritik
Samanya Kshetra, Sui Ka-Pha Samannay Khetra and Pratima Pandey
Baruah Cultural Centre.
An amount of Rs.2 crore has been provided in the budget against
the estimated cost of Rs.10 crore for construction of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika
Memorial at Jalukbari. It will be ensured that the project work does not
suffer from want of fund and is completed in time.
Works pertaining to 15 Jyoti Bishnu Sanskritik Prakalpas, Sri Sri
Anirudha Dev Cultural Complex and Sarat Chandra Singha Memorial
Cultural Complex have been undertaken. For Madhav Dev Kalakhetra at
Narayanpur an amount of Rs. 2 crore has been provided in the budget
against an estimated cost of Rs. 5 crore of the project.
Ras and Bhaona utsavs are not only part of the rich heritage of
Majuli but they also serve as a platform for peace and harmony among
different ethnic groups in the State. Special grants will be provided to
encourage such cultural activities this year. Provision has been made in
the budget for giving incentive for setting up of Mini Cinema Halls in
Block Head Quarters.
17.
HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE
Health & Family Welfare Department has made major strides in the
healthcare sector to make healthcare facilities easily accessible and affordable.
My Government has introduced Assam Arogya Nidhi (AAN) scheme for
providing financial assistance to BPL patients. Through Rastriya Bal Swasthya
14
Karyakram, children will be screened for defects at birth, disabilities etc. The
Rastriya Swasthya Bima Yojana has been initiated to provide protection to BPL
families.
Efforts are on to bring down Maternal Mortality Rate and Infant
Mortality Rate in the coming years through improvement of institutional
delivery system and other measures. Efforts have also been made for full
immunization of children in the State.
‘Sneha Sparsha’ is a recent health care initiative for financial assistance
for specialized treatment like bone marrow transplant, Kidney transplant, Liver
transplant etc of the children below 12 years of age.
Model Hospitals have been made functional in several districts. The
Directorate of AYUSH has been made functional. The Hospital service of Tezpur
Medical College has started functioning. Establishment of new Medical Colleges
at Kokrajhar, Lakhimpur and Dhubri is under process.
We have decided to enhance the stipends of Post Doctorate and Post
Graduate students, Senior and Junior Resident doctors and internees of medical
colleges and dental colleges.
Added emphasis will be given for training of working doctors and
nurses and para medical staff. We propose to work out a scheme to provide
health insurance benefits to a wider section of people.
18.
DRINKING WATER
Our Government has given highest priority to provide safe
drinking water to all. During the year 2014-15 it is proposed to provide
safe drinking water facilities to about 10,000 uncovered and quality
affected habitations, 487 schools and 5010 Anganwadi centres.
Several mega piped water supply schemes namely Greater
Rongbong, Greater Seleng, Greater Amlokhi Bharaguri, Greater Dergaon
Rural, Greater Integrated Osek Pathar, Combined Dighaljaruni and
Tapatjuri pwss have been technically cleared for implementation. 7 Large
Multi Village Schemes have been undertaken.
15
This year added emphasis will be given to improve operation and
maintenance of the existing water supply schemes by ensuring better
participation, effective management, accountability and collection of
user charges from the community.
19.
SOCIAL WELFARE
The main objective of the social welfare department is to improve
the quality of life of women, children, person with disabilities, old and
infirm. The department is implementing the flagship programme like
Integrated Child Development services scheme to extend the benefits to
0-6 yrs of children including pregnant women and lactating mothers. The
department has been implementing the Integrated Child Protection
Scheme for care and protection of children. Focused attention will be
given for improvement in capacity and quality of amenities and services
available in the Orphanages. More old age homes will be set up in the
districts in association with NGOs. To address the specific problems of
the forlorn and destitute old people, I propose to set up a Commission,
who will facilitate a life of safety, security and dignity for such old people.
Our Government is also implementing several schemes for
welfare and empowerment of women like Mukhya Mantrir Mahila
Samridhi Achoni, Baideo, Nabou, Nabuwari etc. A new scheme called
“One Stop Crisis Centre” has been launched for rescue and rehabilitation
of Women in distress. The centre will be a temporary shelter for the
women in distress and free medical service, Legal aids and other
assistances will be provided to them. This department is also
undertaking a scheme namely Mukhya Mantrir Jiban Jyoti Bima Achoni
for giving financial coverage to BPL families in case of certain Diseases
and accidental death.
Swabalamban scheme gives Pensionary benefits to any citizen of
India who are not covered by any existing Pension or Provident Fund
Scheme. Workers from the un-organized sector like Rickshawalas,
Thelawalas, farmers, and domestic help etc. are also eligible to join the
Scheme. Under the Scheme, Govt. of India gives Rs. 1000/- as incentive.
Assam Government is one of the very few States which also contribute
Rs. 1000/- per beneficiary per year, Besides covering Anganwadi
workers, Aasha workers etc, I want to extend the Scheme to the State
16
Home Guards, Casual/ fixed pay employees and economically weaker
sections of the Society in general.
20.
AGRICULTURE
Due to the success in the agricultural sector, the Agriculture
Department has been able to secure three National Awards. Assam is
now surplus in rice production. This has been possible due to utilization
of modern technology, improved practices and hybrid seeds. This year,
Agriculture and Horticulture Department in convergence with Irrigation
Department, Soil Conservation Department and Rural Development
Department propose to introduce a new scheme, namely, Chief
Ministers’ Rural Economy Development Scheme. 60% of the works under
MGNREGA will be taken for creation of productive assets under
Agriculture sector. About one lakh water harvesting structures, 25,000
vermicompost units, 27,000 dairy related structure, 5000 nurseries and a
large number of schemes for micro and minor irrigation, fishery
plantation etc. are proposed to be taken in current year. In the field of
Farm Mechanization, providing Tractors and Power tillers at subsidized
rates will remain a core theme for this department. It is proposed to
issue up to 2 lakh Soil Health Cards to farmers this year.
The Union Government has laid great stress on organic cultivation in
the North East Region. I am happy to inform the House that in our State under
Chief Ministers’ organic farming Scheme, 4500 hectares of land have already
been brought under organic cultivation. This year, we propose to double the
area under organic farming. Horticulture Department will impart training to
15000 unemployed youths and provide them Green House and such other
facilities to make them self-employed.
21.
IRRIGATION
Irrigation Department has created 8.52 lakh Hect of Irrigation
potential in the State. It is proposed to create 37167 Hect of Irrigation
17
potential by completing Dhansiri Irrigation project and two other
ongoing irrigation projects in major and medium irrigation sector. 174
minor irrigation schemes will be completed for creating irrigation
potential of 58143 Hect. Under Command Area Development and Water
Management Programme it is proposed to cover an area of 7700 Hect
under irrigation.
All of us know that increase in agriculture production is closely
linked with availability of irrigation facilities and its proper use. Irrigation
Department will maintain close coordination with the Agriculture
Department in this regard.
22.
FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT
Fish production in the State has reached a level of 2.67 lakh MT during
2013-14. New ponds will be constructed and potentially rich swamps and
marshy areas will be developed for aquaculture through Community and SHGs.
It is proposed to provide bicycle, hundi, drag net etc. to the SC fishermen.
Modern hygienic fish markets have been set up at Sulung (Nagaon) and Adabari
(Nalbari). Construction of 7 more hygienic fish markets will be taken up. To
make table fish available during fishing ban period, it is proposed to develop
fishery ponds covering 103 ha of water area for fish harvest in lean period. It is
proposed to cover 1 lakh fishermen under the scheme “Insurance of
Fishermen” against death and permanent disabilities in the current year.
23.
ANIMAL HUSBANDARY & VETERINARY AND DAIRY DEVELOPMENT
Our Government has taken up several programmes for
enhancement of production of milk, meat and eggs while creating self
employment opportunities at the same time.
A new Government Goat Breeding Farm is being established at
Borhola. It is proposed to upgrade upto 20 % of the total indigenous
breedable cattle through artificial insemination. Our Government
proposes to induct high yielding dairy cattle from outside the State.
It is proposed to organize 600 more Dairy Cooperative Societies in
the State. For economic empowerment of women, cross bred heifers will
18
be distributed to women beneficiary. Under the Chief Minister’s Special
Package in Dhemaji district, 13 Commercial Dairy farms have been
undertaken.
Input supports like Cattle feed, Green fodder, Milk testing
equipments etc will be provided to dairy farmers during 2014-15.
24.
PANCHAYAT & RURAL DEVELOPMENT
In the rural development sector, several flagship programmes for
employment, housing and infrastructure development for the rural areas
are being implemented.
During the year 2013-14, 12.62 lakh households were provided
jobs under MGNREGA and 144583 IAY houses have been constructed.
750501 persons were benefitted under the programme Indira Gandhi
National Old Age Pension Scheme, 61441 beneficiaries were provided
pension under Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme, and
23468 beneficiaries were covered in Indira Gandhi National Disability
Pension Scheme last year.
Assam has become the pioneer in implementation of e-PRI
module in the country by rolling-out almost all the programme modules
under e-PRI. All Gaon Panchayat, Anchalik Panchayat and Zilla Parishad
have registered their separate websites and these have been integrated
with National portal.
Under NRLM, 51940 Self Help Groups have been promoted and
3453 Village Organisation have been formed. During the current financial
year, the State Institute of Rural Development is planning to provide
employment to 20000 persons.
25.
COOPERATION
A large number of Co-operative societies are involved in
Agricultural credit, Housing, Fishery, Dairy processing, Cottage and Small
Industries, etc. In order to boost up their efforts, our Govt has identified
several important schemes for implemention in the financial year 201415. Creation of storage capacity for agricultural produces are an essential
need in the rural areas. Towards that goal, the Cooperation department
has taken up construction of godowns under the Rural Infrastructure
Development Fund and Chief Minister’s Special Scheme. Under the
World Bank funded Externally Aided Project, Assam Dairy Development
19
Plan has been taken up. Government will also provide the necessary
support for infrastructure development of Assam Rajiv Gandhi University
of Cooperative Management. For empowering Women Cooperatives, our
Government has proposed to provide monetary grant to 2486 Women
Cooperatives.
26.
CONTROL OF FLOOD AND EROSION
Water Resources department has got recommendation of
Government of India for 41 flood management schemes costing about
Rs.1387 crore. Approval for 8 schemes costing Rs.42 crore has been
received by the Water Resources Department under Chief Minister’s
special package in Barak valley. Another 7 schemes costing about Rs. 70
crore in Tinsukia district is under consideration. In view of the critical
erosion problem, channelization of river Brahmaputra, Barak and its
tributaries and reclamation of lost land has become highly necessary. I
propose to set up a Dredging Corporation for this purpose. The
department has initiated action to constitute a group of experts
comprising national and international experts for advising the
Government in this regard.
27.
SOIL CONSERVATION
Our Government is implementing various schemes for protection of
surface soil as well as in-situ moisture Conservation in Agricultural Land and
Cash Crop cultivation etc.
During the year 2014 – 15, it is proposed to develop about 3 lakh 73
thousand hectares rain fed and waste land and 5400 Hectares of unproductive
cultivable land. The department have reclaimed 4445 Hectare of waste lands
during 2013 – 14. RCC check dams to increase agricultural productivity of about
1786 hectares gullied lands and development of about 3333 hectares of riverine
land have been proposed this year.
28.
PUBLIC WORKS
Our Government has given priority for construction of all weather roads
as well as conversion of timber bridges to RCC Bridges. Since 2001 PWRD has
completed 22000 Km of all weather roads and 3549 RCC Bridges. About 5000
20
Km of all weather roads and 1300 RCC Bridge works are under various stages of
construction. Special schemes have been taken up for conversion of
the
remaining timber bridges to RCC Bridges. Priority has also been given for
construction of roads along the inter State border. Special fund will be provided
for re-construction of flood damaged roads and drains. “Assam Roads Research
and Training Institute” has been set up at Guwahati to impart capacity building
training to the engineers.
Our Government is committed to integrated development of the
highway sector of the State. With the declaration of 12 new National Highways
in the State, the total length of NH now is 3717 km. Tender has been floated by
Central Government for 4-laning of NH -37 from Numaligarh to Dibrugarh.
Important by passes/ realignment works of Tinsukia, Mohanbari-Chabua,
Makum, Silchar, Katlichera and North-Lakhimpur are in progress.
Our Government has emphasized environment friendly construction.
For this, one MoU has been signed with ‘The Energy and Resources Institute’.
New Assembly Building at Dispur, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Memorial
at Jalukbari, Improvement of 1060 High School Buildings are some of the
major projects undertaken by the department. New major schemes like
New Engineering College at Dhemaji and 10 Model Degree Colleges
under Minority Sector will also be taken up.
29.
ENERGY
With the acceleration of the pace of development and economic
activities during the last 12 years, the demand for power in the State has
increased phenomenally. Present peak demand of the State is around 1400 MW
and average power availability in peak and off peak is 1100 MW and 900 MW
respectively. Due to shortage of power, APDCL has to purchase power from
outside NE region. But due to constraint of transmission corridor from Eastern
Region to NER, APDCL has to impose forced load shedding. However, my
Government has taken up the matter with Ministry of Power of Government of
India to improve the power shortage problem.
21
The electrification work in 8146 un-electrified and 12645 partially
electrified villages has been completed. Free electricity connections to more
than 11.20 lakhs BPL households have been given. Projects amounting to
Rs.1000 crore has been sanctioned for strengthening Transmission and
Distribution network in the State under Trade Development Fund. ADB funded
Assam Power Sector Enhancement Investment Programme is under
implementation for development of Transmission and Distribution system.
Improvement of electricity infrastructure in 67 towns has been taken up at a
cost of Rs.850 crore. Construction of Data Centre has been completed.
I take the pleasure to inform this August House that for immediate
replacement of damaged DTR to be distributed under the discretion of local
MLA and to maintain a buffer stock of DTR to be replaced in important places
like hospital, water supply schemes, educational institution etc., and an amount
of Rs 50 crore has been provided.
The commercial production of the 3 MW stage-II of Myntriang SHEP has
started in March’14. Commissioning of the 6 MW stage-I is expected to be done
by July’15. Detail Project Report of 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydro Electric project
for an estimated cost of Rs.1490 crore has been submitted to the Central
Electricity Authority for Techno Economic Clearance. Emphasis has been given
by my Government for generation of Solar Power to supplement the sources of
conventional energy.
30.
PRINTING AND STATIONERY
The Government printing Press at Guwahati is going to be modernised with
enhancement of capacity to cope up with the growing demand of Government
printing works. Fund have been allocated for strengthening the building of
Assam Government press and for providing modern and hygienic facilities for
workers.
31.
MINES AND MINERALS
Petroleum exploration licence has been granted by our
Government for two Exploration Blocks. Our Government has also
granted for the first time in the State one Block for exploration of Coal
Bed Methane, jointly to a public sector & a private sector company.
Assam Mineral Development Corporation Ltd., has entered into an MOU
22
with M/s Birla Corporation Ltd. in 2014 for setting up of a cement plant
in Assam. To supplement the shortfall of conventional power supply, the
Assam Hydrocarbon & Energy Company Ltd., has initiated an ambitious
project of installing solar powered cells atop the houses in the urban
areas. Our Government has proposed to take up the geological
investigation programmes of detailed exploration of limestone in Dima
Hasao District, and Coal in Karbi Anglong District and Hydrogeological
investigation of groundwater during the year 2014-15. I have taken up
the matter of payment of Oil royalty on pre-discounted price by OIL and
ONGC with Government of India.
32.
INDUSTRIES & COMMERCE
Our Government is committed to enhance the industrial
productivity and production in the State. In order to achieve the desired
industrial growth of 9%, I propose to allocate required fund for
implementation of different schemes of micro, small and medium
enterprises, with special emphasis on women, weaker section and
traditional artisans and first generation entrepreneurs. A Flagship
programme named “Multi-disciplinary skill development” has been
launched to impart training on employable trades.
I propose to provide a soft loan at a nominal interest rate and
hand-holding facilities for the first generation micro entrepreneurs in the
form of “Angel Fund” during 2013-14. Rs. 10 crore is proposed for
implementation of the Scheme during the current year. I also propose to
provide special incentive for employment to local youth by the way of
supply of machinery and raw materials under “Mukhya Mantrir
Karmajyoti Achoni”. I propose to provide special State capital investment
subsidy for women SC/ST entrepreneurs. Provision has also been made
for supply of raw material grant for Bell Metal Artisan and for
promotional scheme of handicraft.
As large tracts of land is not available for creating Industrial
infrastructure like National Manufacturing & Investment Zone (NMIZ),
my Government has laid emphasis on creation of smaller industrial
pockets across the State like “Mega Food Park” at Tihu and “Bamboo
Park” at Choygaon etc. A scheme for industrial land bank for
development of industrial clusters will be worked out this year.
23
33.
HANDLOOM, TEXTILE AND SERICULTURE
The Handloom sector is providing direct and indirect employment
to about 25 lakh people. For mitigating the problems faced by the
weavers in marketing hand woven cloth, it is proposed to establish
handloom trade centres at Dibrugarh, Guwahati and Handloom
showrooms in different district head quarters. It is proposed to assist
1800 weavers of SHG during the current year 2014-15. Under Integrated
Handloom Development Schemes 17200 weavers have been assisted
with training and grant-in aids. About 1500 handloom trainees pass out
every year from the 105 handloom training centers/institutions of the
department. The department will work out a package of aid and
incentives to ensure that the passed out trainees can start producing on
their own and become economically independent. Health insurance
coverage was extended to 11, 30,448 weavers during last three years. It
has been decided to implement 92 projects Cluster Development
schemes. For enhancement of production and productivity of handloom
fabrics, our Government has been distributing yarn to poor weavers as
working capital. It is proposed to cover about 1, 00,000 weavers during
the financial year 2014-15 with an estimated cost of Rs.15 crore for this
scheme. 16 yarn banks are proposed to be sanctioned during 2014-15.
34.
INFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY
The e-Governance initiatives in the State will make delivery of services
speedy and help in checking corruption. Steps have been taken for
implementing the State wide Rollout of e-District programme to connect the DC
Office, the Sub-Division Office and the Block Offices with citizens. Assam State
Wide Area Network (ASWAN) is already operational with connectivity to 287
Points of Presence. To enable complete connectivity of all offices, my
Government is implementing a project to connect 400 government offices at
the initial stage.
State Data Centre which is expected to be commissioned by 31st March,
2015 will act as a centralized repository of all departmental data and hosting
platform of all Government services. The “Assam Online Portal & Secretariat
Less Paper Office” project in the Assam Secretariat is in advanced stages of
24
implementation. A ‘Cyber Tower’ will be constructed at Guwahati, to provide
ready to operate space to the industries under one roof.
35.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
The Science and Technology department has undertaken several
projects for popularization of Science & Technology and for creating
scientific temperament among the people. Keeping in line with this
philosophy, my Government has initiated the construction of a Science
City, Guwahati Biotech Park Incubation Centre and three new
planetariums at North Lakhimpur, Nalbari and Kokrajhar. 250 bighas of
land has been earmarked for the proposed science city near Sonapur.
Once completed, the science city will not only enhance the urge for
scientific enquiry among the school children but it will also act as a major
destination of tourists.
Protection of bio-diversity and suitable response to climatic
change are areas of concern for us. For this purpose we are collaborating
with ‘The Energy Research Institute (TERI) for setting up a University in
the State. Block Resource Mapping of Dimoria and Mairabari blocks
have been carried out using high resolution satellite data. Mapping
under Agricultural resource information system of Kamrup (rural and
metro) using remote sensing and GIS has also been completed.
36.
URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Our Government is committed for strengthening of urban
infrastructure and services. Our Government has taken up 106
infrastructure projects for small & medium towns involving about Rs.876
crore. It is proposed to prepare 45 Master Plans by adopting advanced
technologies.
National Urban Livelihood Mission to reduce the poverty of
Urban Poor households would be implemented in 26 district headquarter Towns. Under Assam Bikash Yojana, Rs.3.80 crore has been
allocated for providing mechanical devices like garbage cleaning, road
25
sweeping machines, etc. Rs. 2.85 crore has been allocated for
implementation of Low Cost Sanitation Programme.
The Detail Project Report submitted for Urban Water Supply for
Digboi, Simaluguri and Silapathar are under final stage of consideration
for approval of Government of India.
Assam State Housing Board has been allocated around Rs.4 crore,
for implementation of Janata Housing Scheme.
37.
GUWAHATI DEVELPMENT
Government is making all out effort for development of Guwahati
city.
Work on Feasibility Study and Preparation of DPR for Metro Rail
Project for Guwahati City has started. A Sewerage Project for Guwahati
has been proposed at an estimated cost of Rs.1700 crore. It is proposed
to provide affordable housing for 10000 urban poor of Guwahati. For
easing traffic congestion in the city it is proposed to construct Road
under-bridges in 5 places of level crossings between Kamakhya &
Guwahati station. All the major Roads, Lanes and Bye-Lanes of Guwahati
are proposed to be provided with Street Lights.
It is proposed to create a Scientific Storm Water Drainage System
in Guwahati for mitigating the problem of water logging and artificial
flood. It is proposed to ensure protection of the water channels and
other water bodies of Guwahati from being further encroached. It is
proposed to establish one Institute of Urban Development and Research
to cater to the needs of Capacity Building of Urban Local Bodies.
38.
ENVIRONMENT & FOREST
Our Government is committed to protect the valuable forests and
for extending the green cover of the State. For this purpose several
programmes for afforestation, plantation of medicinal and aromatic
herbs have been taken.
My Government has taken firm steps to protect wildlife by
providing sophisticated arms to Forest Protection Forces to counter the
poachers. The population of Rhino has increased to 2544 in the year
26
2013 from 2201 in 2009. Presence of Assam Forest Protection Force will
be effectively enhanced for wild life protection.
It is proposed to create 12000 hectares of plantation and to
distribute more than one crore seedling during 2014-15. The Assam State
Biodiversity Board proposes to constitute 25 more Biodiversity
Management Committees during the financial year 2014-15. Plantation
of over 8370 hect. areas has been created during 2014-15. Firewood
plantation over 10000 hect. through JFMCs will be taken up. “Capacity
Development for Forest Management and Personnel Training Project”
assisted by Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) is being
implemented. A Project on Forest and Biodiversity Conservation has
been started with financial assistance from the French Development
Agency.
39.
TOURISM
Our Government has undertaken various infrastructure developmental
projects for promotion of Tourism. Inflow of domestic and international tourist
has increased significantly to 1 crore 35 lacs and 52 thousand respectively
during the year 2013 – 14. The statue of Lachit Borphukan is being erected in
the middle of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The construction of “Taj Vivanta”
a 5 star hotel in Guwahati is expected to be completed soon. 690 unemployed
educated youths have been provided financial assistance for purchase and
operation of tourist vehicles. Our Government has also initiated steps for
creation of tourism facilities in Tourist Circuits and destination.
The successful holding of “Ambubachi Mela” in the famous Shakti
Shrine, Kamakhya Temple in 2013 and 2014, the Tirobhava Tithi of Srimanata
Sankardeva at Madhupur Satra, Urs festival at Poa Mecca, Hajo, Royal Kathina
Festival in Dibrugarh District, Doul utsav at Batadrawa and Barpeta and the
Death Anniversary of the Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur at Dhubri are some of the
important events under Religious Tourism.
40.
TRANSPORT
One of my priorities is to provide economical, efficient and passenger
friendly transportation to the commuters of the State. During last three years
ASTC purchased 460 buses for rural connectivity. Exclusive ladies buses have
been introduced in Guwahati city recently. Procurement of 110 rural
27
connectivity buses at a cost of Rs. 40 crore has been sanctioned. Another 400
buses have been sanctioned under JNURM for Guwahati city.
Road safety measures are being strengthened through enforcement of
laws and promotion of Road Safety awareness and education programmes. ETransport project “Sarathi” and “Vahan” is under implementation in all District
Transport Offices of Assam.
Besides normal ferry services, the Department is also operating
Commercial Services for development of River Tourism with the services of
river Cruising facility and floating restaurant. To benefit people who are
dependent on Inland Water Transport, I propose to set up an Inland Waterways
Corporation to provide safe, improved and comfortable Ferry services, besides
cost effective movement of cargo.
A proposal has been submitted for investment of Rs.3875 crore for the
development of IWT Assam under assistance of World Bank. Another proposal
for infrastructure Development of IWT services on River Brahmaputra and
Barak at the cost of Rs. 37 crore is under process. The IWT Assam has
introduced the GPRS based vessel Tracking System in ferry operation and SMS
Monitoring System for passengers’ safety.
I also propose to introduce a scheme to provide 30% rebate to
the senior citizens in all ASTC buses.
41.
GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
I am aware of the problem faced by the public leaders and
officials and common people visiting different places for official works,
medical care and educational needs of children for want of adequate
accommodation in State guest houses outside the State. Increase in
physical capacity and improvement in facilities are the only solutions to
this important issue. In this regard, my Government has taken the
initiatives to construct new guest houses and increase the capacity of
existing houses.
Substantial works have been completed for Assam Bhawans at
Bangalore and Vellore. Reconstruction of Assam House, New Delhi has
been taken up. Construction works of multi storied Assam House at
Kolkata is going on. Extension works of Assam House, Shillong and
Mumbai are nearing completion.
28
42.
PERSONNEL
Our government has taken steps to put immovable property
returns details of IAS/ACS officers in the Government website to
promote transparency. The Government has also made mandatory for all
Class-I officer to submit their Immovable and Movable Property Returns
latest by 31st January every year. We propose to comprehensively review
the manpower requirements in different departments for long term
planning.
43.
ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS & TRAINING
Our Government is committed to impart transparency and
accountability in the delivery of services to the people. The Government
has enacted the Assam Right to Public Services Act 2012 towards this
goal. Under this Act, 56 important services under 14 Departments have
been notified for timely delivery. The Administrative Staff College has
been empowered with functional autonomy to enable it to design its
own training courses.
44.
PENSION & PUBLIC GRIEVANCES
At present, nine Nationalised Banks are authorised for payment
of pension to the Government pensioners. Our Government has decided
to issue Identity Cards to all interested retired State Government
employees, which will be beneficial in many ways.
Pension Adalats for Kamrup District was held in August, 2013 and
423 long pending pension cases were settled. More Pension Adalats will
be held during the current financial year to settle long pending pension
cases in other places also.
To ensure quick finalization of Pension cases of the retired Govt.
employees I propose to set up a Pension Tribunal, whom the retired
employees may approach for redressal of their grievances.
29
45.
INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
The Information and Public Relation Department will use
different media of mass communication to bring the people closer to the
Government. The department will take leadership in the mass awareness
programme in health, education, literacy, legal aid, communal harmony
etc. Emphasis has been given to promote and showcase the cultural
diversity of the land and its people.
30 bighas of land has been allotted for Lakshminath Bezbaruah
Government Institute of Mass Communication & Printing Technology
and Research. For Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Photo & Film Archive & Research
Centre 15 bighas of land has been allotted.
Under Journalists’ Medical Welfare Scheme, financial assistance
was given to 12 ailing working media persons for their treatment during
2013-14. For the journalists who unfortunately leave this world while
serving, a scheme will be introduced for contributing to the welfare of
the bereaved families.
46.
PUBLIC ENTERPRISES
Our Government has initiated the Public Sector Reform measures
financed by the Asian Development Bank. So far 11 PSUs have executed MoUs
with their Administrative Departments. For empowerment of women, our Govt
has taken steps to include woman member into the Board of Directors of all
State PSUs. Steps have been taken for providing financial grants to motivate the
PSUs to introduce proper safety measures in work places and for reducing the
occupational hazards. Financial assistances are also being provided to the PSUs
for obtaining of ISO Certification for improvement of their work culture.
47.
REVENUE & DISASTER MANAGEMENT
To provide a better environment for work an amount of Rs.12
crore has been provided for the construction and renovation of the
building of circle offices and residences of Circle officers. As the existing
land revenue in the present day context is too low, it is proposed to
30
enhance land revenue to Rs.30/- per bigha in case of rural areas. The
land revenue of town land will also be enhanced commensurately. A
pilot Project in the districts of Kamrup Metro and Kamrup was
introduced for collecting revenue through e-stamp selling and
Government is extending roll out of e-stamping throughout the State.
Initiative has also been taken up for computerization of Mouza Offices
during the year 2014- 15. Two new Revenue Circles namely Sapekhati
Revenue Circle in Sivasagar District and Thelamara Revenue Circle in
Sonitpur District have been created recently. 37 Revenue Circles in the
districts within BTAD and neighbouring districts have been re-organized
for administrative convenience. It has been observed that, the major
causes of flood and water logging in Guwahati is due to rampant
encroachment in hill areas, felling of trees and earth cutting. Therefore,
our Government has decided not to give settlement of land to any
person in hill land in and around Guwahati.
48.
EXCISE
About Rs.616 crore was collected as Excise revenue and Rs.434
crore collected as VAT on liquor during 2013-14. The target for current
financial year is fixed at about Rs.709 crore. The department has
detected 30,503 illicit liquor cases during 2013-14. The department is
also taking the initiative to implement e -Governance for better office
management with modernization.
49.
Hon’ble Speaker Sir, during the last 13 years, we have been
announcing and implementing many new, innovative and important
schemes including those announced at the time of presentation of the
Vote on Accounts on February 13, 2014 for the socio-economic
development of the State. Many of those schemes have been completed,
some are under implementation, but there are some schemes which
could not be started for various reasons. Before completion of the
present term of the State Govt, for which only less than two years are
left, I would like to see that all our announcements are brought to their
logical conclusions during the next two years of time except those
schemes which could not be implemented due to various problems
31
including some inherent constraints impeding their implementation.
Such schemes will be suitably modified or substituted by new schemes.
To increase the pace of sanction and implementation of various
schemes, the Finance department delegated full power of sanction upto
Rs. 10 crore to the Administrative Departments last year. Therefore,
about 90% of the plan proposals of the departments can be sanctioned
by the Administrative Departments themselves. It may be mentioned
that since all Central Sector funding will be routed through the State
budget from this year, full power of sanction has been delegated to the
administrative departments to ensure timely sanction and
implementation of the schemes and proper utilization of fund. To ensure
proper utilization of fund I shall introduce third party independent
evaluation in major departments.
Having said this, I would like to submit before this august house
that the next two years will be the years of consolidation of the fruits of
development and maximum emphasis will be given for timely completing
schemes already announced earlier. However, I am also aware of the fact
that the people of Assam, having returned us for the third successive
term to this house with resounding victory, expect a lot from us. Very
recently I had held two rounds of formal interactions with some of the
highly respected Academicians, Intellectuals, Retired Civil servants and
Social and Public workers as well as representatives of trade and
industry. While I had been tremendously benefited by their valuable
suggestions, it also brought into the forefront the high level of
expectations and aspirations of the public from the State Government.
Therefore, I like to announce further the following new schemes for the
financial year 2014-15. While specific budget provision has been made
against most of these schemes, a common pool of fund has been kept for
the remaining ones. Subject to satisfactory progress of work and fund
utilization, necessary additional fund may be provided during this year
itself.
New schemes:
(1)
This year the State is commemorating and celebrating the 150th
birth Anniversary of Sahityarathi Laxminath Bezbarua. To show our
deep regard and gratitude to this stalwart of Assam, alongwith the
32
numerous Socio- cultural organizations and institutions, I propose
to make provision for construction of a bronze statue of Laxminath
Bezbarua and for this purpose an amount of Rs.10 Lakh has been
provided. I shall like to inform the August House that my
Government is constantly pursuing with the Government of
Odisha for acquiring the residential house of Sahityarathi
Lakshminath Bezbarua at Sambalpur for preserving it as a befitting
memorial and heritage.
(2)
Introduction of farm mechanization has helped to increase
agricultural production. Therefore, I propose to provide 20 Power
Tillers each to farmers in every Assembly Constituency at
subsidized rates. An amount of Rs. 15 cr. has been provided in the
present budget for the purpose .
(3)
To encourage activities of Women Self Help Groups, I propose to
provide cash assistance of Rs. 5000 each to 1 lakh women SHGs in
the State. An amount of Rs. 15 crore has been provided for this
purpose. I also propose to provide sewing machines to women for
commercial use, the focus being on the un-married women and
widows.
(4)
Safe drinking water helps in preventing many water borne
diseases. Towards this goal, I propose to provide for 6300 spot
water sources through-out the State. Each LAC will be provided 50
such water sources.
(5)
In spite of having the requisite skills and expertise, poor weavers
in our State are not able to make full use of the same for want of
raw-materials. Similarly, many poor people do without blankets in
winter. Therefore, I propose to make available yarn and blankets
to 20,000 poor beneficiaries in each L.A.C. An amount of Rs.50
Crore has been provided in the budget for the present.
(6)
I am pained by the pathetic conditions and the worries of the
hundreds of erosion affected and landless families across the
State. I propose to continue to provide financial assistance and 2
bundles of GCI Sheets to such poor families to help rebuild their
houses.
33
(7)
There are several Socio-cultural institutions in our State, which
have been contributing to social welfare, harmony and progress.
These institutions have historical, religious, academic and tourist
importance as well. Sriguru Tegbahadur Saheb Guruduwara at
Dhubri, Gurudwara at Fancy Bazar, Guwahati, Dargah of Ajan
Fakir, Madhupur Satra, Batadrawa Satra,Barpeta Satra, Jain caves
near Pancharatna, Shiva Doul at Sibsagar etc. are some such
community institutions of pride in our State. I propose to provide
special grants of Rs.5 lakh each for improvement of infrastructure
and facilities for visitors in such important places.
(8)
Agricultural production and productivity increase with the use of
improved inputs like certified seeds and appropriate manures.
Therefore, I propose to provide financial assistance of Rs.5000 to
such farmers covering about 1000 poor and marginal families in
each LAC.
(9)
I propose to construct 1000 km all weather road both for Urban
and Rural areas including Char areas. Besides 500 new RCC bridges
will be constructed.
(10)
Considering the educational backwardness of the Tea and Ex-tea
tribe communities, I propose to make special allocation of about
Rs.43 crore for advancement of their education.
(11)
To make treatment affordable, essential medicines will be made
available free of cost for the poor at all Government hospitals. The
facilities in the subdivisional and District Hospitals, specially those
of the children and labor wards and ICUs will be improved.
(12)
For taking special care of the School children, special health checkup programme will be chalked out. Synergy will be developed with
the NGOs’ and voluntary organizations for this. Health cards will
be issued to the children.
(13)
I propose to set up one NCC Academy in the State and for that
purpose, necessary assistance and approval from the Central
Government will be sought.
34
(14)
It is a welcome step that several private Universities and Colleges
have come up in the recent years demonstrating quality and an
environment for competitiveness for better standards. Therefore, I
propose to introduce a package of incentives for encouraging
private investment in the higher education sector.
(15)
In respect of Medical Education, I propose to initiate steps for
setting up of one Dental College in Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical
College at Barpeta and one institution of physical medicine and
Rehabilitation in Jorhat Medical College.
(16)
I propose to set up Agricultural Education, Networking and
Entertainment Hubs in the block headquarters. These centers will
provide a common platform for sharing and dissemination of
knowledge regarding Agriculture and the allied subjects along
with facilities for entertainment.
(17)
A special scheme will be taken up for Preservation of ancient
monuments and Ponds in Sibsagar district and other places.
(18)
A Special scheme will be taken up for improvement of the
stadiums, including Sibasagar Stadium.
(19)
Special and improved industrial and Agricultural kits will be
provided to small artisans and farmers to improve productivity.
(20)
As many High Schools don’t have good Science Laboratories, I
propose to introduce Mobile Science Laboratories in the State.
(21)
To honour the versatile personality of Late Moinul Hoque
Choudhury, I propose to initiate an award for showing outstanding
success in the field of modern Agricultural techniques and
progressive farming.
(22)
To make local products at village and small scale level competitive,
I propose to set up common facilities centre for production of
handicraft, bamboo and other items in pockets of such economic
activities. Similarly, common facilities centers will be set up for
fruit processing.
35
50.
(23)
For construction of the Axom Sahitya Sabha Bhawan at Kohima an
assistance of Rs.10 lakh will be provided. For publication of the
book titled “Axomiya Sahityar Sampurna Itihas” an amount of
Rs.15 lakh will be provided.
(24)
I propose to launch a comprehensive scheme in collaboration with
Government of India for sustainable rehabilitation of the erosion
affected people.
(25)
To prepare our youths for various competitive examinations,
including Civil Services, Defence services, various para-military
services, Banking and Insurance services as well as employment
under various Central PSUs, I propose to set up a Training Institute
of National standard.
(26)
With the passage of time some restructuring of the Tea Industry in
Assam, has become necessary. In collaboration with Government
of India, I propose to launch a Comprehensive programme for
revival and rejuvenation of the Tea industry with special focus on
small industries.
(27)
Implementation of schemes and projects under the Rs.1000 crore
package for Barak Valley has started. This will continue.
MOTOR VEHICLE TAX
A large number of affluent people are buying expensive and very
expensive luxury cars. I want to apply higher rate of taxes on such
vehicles as compared to the less expensive cars and motor cycles. I have
advised Transport Department to come up with a duly calibrated
progressive taxation structure for this purpose.
51.
TAX PROPOSALS
I would like to make the following tax proposals:(i) In order to give relief to the common people, I propose to exempt
chimney and parts of Kerosene lamp from VAT. At present kerosene
36
lamp is exempted from VAT whereas its parts and chimney is taxable
@ 14.5%.
(ii) For students, I propose to reduce rate of VAT in parts of writing
instrument from 14.5% to 5%.
(iii) Further I also propose to reduce rate of VAT on accessories of bi-cycle,
tri-cycle and cycle rickshaws from 14.5% to 5% to give some relief to
common people.
(iv) In order to improve women health and hygiene, I propose to reduce
rate of VAT on sanitary napkins from current 14.5% to 5%.
(v) In order to encourage Green Technology I wish to exempt renewable
energy devices and spare parts from VAT.
(vi) Currently fabricated goods of iron and steel are manufactured mostly
by small industries which have to pay 14.5%. In order to boost MSME
sector and encourage local youths, I propose to reduce rate of VAT on
fabricated iron and steel goods from 14.5% to 5%.
(vii) To promote industrialization in the State, especially the MSME sector,
I propose to allow concessional rate of entry tax on all raw materials
used by local industries if such raw materials are not available locally. I
will instruct Industries Department to draw up a scheme for this
purpose.
(viii) In order to give some relief to the small salaried person, I propose to
raise minimum exemption of Profession tax from Rs.40,000/- per
annum to Rs. 1,20,000/-. From now onwards, a person getting gross
salary up to Rs.10,000/- per month need not to pay any profession
tax. A person having gross salary of more than Rs. 10,000/- but less
than Rs. 15,000/- per month shall have to pay Rs. 150/- per month. A
person having gross salary of Rs. 15,000/- or more but less than Rs.
25,000/- per month shall have to pay Rs. 180/- per month and only
those persons who have gross salary of Rs. 25,000/- or more per
month shall be liable to pay tax at the highest slab i.e. Rs. 208/- per
month.
Further, similar slabs shall be applicable also for other
professionals. Accordingly, where the annual gross income of a
Medical practitioner, Technical and professional consultants, Legal
practitioner etc is more than Rs. 1,20,000/- but less than Rs.
1,80,000/- such professionals shall have to pay Rs. 1800/- per year,
where the annual gross income is Rs. 1,80,000/- or more -but less
than Rs. 3,00,000/- they shall have to pay Rs. 2160/- per year and
only where annual gross income is Rs. 3,00,000/- or more these
professionals shall be liable to pay tax at the highest slab i.e. Rs.
2500/- per year.
(ix) For Tea sector, I propose the following incentives:-
37
(a) I propose to extend the deduction allowed @ Rs.6/- per kg of the
tea exported through Inland Container Depot (ICD) for another
one year.
(b) For the benefit of tea labourer of the state, I also propose to
make necessary amendment in the Plantation Development
Fund Scheme, 1994 so as to allow withdrawal of fund from the
Plantation Development Fund for meeting the expenditure in
regard to construction of labour houses.
These proposals allowing exemption will cost State exchequer around
Rs. 40.00 crores. In order to compensate the loss of Government revenue, I
wish to make the following proposals:(i) I propose to increase the rate of VAT on motor parts and accessories
from 5% to 14.5%.
(ii) I propose to increase the rate of VAT on natural gas from 12% to 14.5%.
(iii) Nowadays a number of items are coming from neighbouring countries
for use and consumption on which no tax is leviable, which is affecting
local trade and industries. In order to increase State revenue as well
as to safeguard local trade and industry, I propose to levy entry tax on
import.
(iv) In order to discourage consumption of tobacco, we have already
banned chewing tobacco. Now I propose to increase the rate of VAT
on smoking Tobacco from 25% to 30% in the interest of health of the
people of the state.
However rate of VAT on tobacco in the neighbouring states
are less, hence increase in the rate of VAT may to lead to some trade
diversion. Therefore, I also propose to take up the matter with the
neighbouring states in order to have a uniform rate of VAT in all the
North Eastern States.
2. I propose to draw up a Liquidation Act for outstanding arrear dues for one
more time to clear up long outstanding dues.
3. In order to facilitate all types of dealers as well as tax administration, I
propose to implement issuance of statutory forms electronically.
4. We have two Checkgates at the entry point from West Bengal to Assam,
one at Srirampur and another at Boxirhat. A state of the art Composite
Checkgate has been established at Srirampur with multiple lay byes and
common facilities like common building, computerization etc. We
propose to integrate the functioning of all the Departments in this
Checkgate in this financial year. It is now proposed to construct another
state of the art Composite Checkgate at Boxirhat (Chagolia) for which
financial sanction has already been accorded and we propose to expedite
38
the work so that the functioning of the Composite Checkgate at Boxirhat
can be started at the earliest.
52.
BUDGET ESTIMATES.
Now Sir, I come to the Budget Estimates for the Financial Year
2014 – 15. The five year medium term fiscal plan and other statements
required to be placed in terms of the relevant provisions of the Assam
Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2005 have been
placed in this August House in a separate booklet.
The budget estimates of 2014 – 15 show a receipt of Rs. 57311.39
crore under the consolidated fund of the State. Out of this Rs.52696.81
crore is on Revenue Account and the remaining Rs.4614.58 crore is
under Capital Account. I have shown the estimated receipt in the
consolidated fund from different sources at Table-I. After adding the
receipt of Rs.329365.94 crore under Public Account and of Rs.50.00
crore under Contingency Fund, the aggregate receipts amount to
Rs.386727.33 crore. As against this, total expenditure from the
consolidated fund of the State in 2014 – 15 is estimated at Rs. 58104.54
crore of which Rs.48631.30 crore is on Revenue Account and Rs.9473.24
crore is on Capital Account. The estimates of grant-wise expenditure
from the Consolidated Fund during 2014 – 15 has been shown in Table 2.
Taking into account the expenditure of Rs.329958.56 crore under
Public Account and Rs.50.00 crore under Contigency Fund, the
aggregate expenditure for the year is estimated at Rs.388113.10 crore.
Thus, estimated transactions during the year will result in an estimated
deficit of Rs.1385.77 crore. This, together with the opening deficit of
Rs.972.14 crore, the financial year 2014 – 15 is expected to end with an
estimated closing deficit of Rs.2357.91 crore.
With these words, Mr. Speaker Sir, I commend this budget to the
House.
JAI AAI ASOM
JAI HIND
39