Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlights the state’s pioneering co-district concept aimed at improving governance and efficiency, setting an example for other Indian states to follow.
Guwahati:In a significant move towards enhancing local governance, Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently inaugurated three co-districts in the Kamrup (Metropolitan) district. During this event, he emphasized that despite its smaller size, Assam is leading the way in administrative innovation, with various schemes from the BJP-led government gaining attention from other states.
The co-district model, which Assam claims as the first of its kind in the country, is designed to revolutionize grassroots governance by decentralizing administrative functions. Sarma expressed confidence that within the next few years, other states will likely adopt similar models, albeit under different names. This initiative aims to bring government services closer to the citizens, facilitating easier access and reducing the burden on district administration.
Historically, Assam’s administrative structure has been influenced by models from West Bengal and other developed states, a legacy from British colonial governance. However, Sarma pointed out that Assam has now taken significant steps to create distinctive schemes that are inspiring other regions. Notable among these initiatives are the “Orundoi” scheme for women and the education department’s “Samarth” portal, both of which have drawn interest from various states, prompting delegations to visit Assam for insights.
The chief minister highlighted the importance of co-districts as centralized hubs for administrative services. Traditionally, citizens had to travel to district commissioners’ offices for various administrative needs, including land-related issues and welfare schemes. By empowering co-districts with broader authority, Sarma believes this will save time for residents and allow district commissioners to focus more on development projects.
Co-districts are set to play a crucial role in multiple areas, including land revenue, welfare programs, food distribution, rural development, and disaster management. Sarma noted that given Assam’s recurring flood challenges, these units will be tasked with comprehensive flood relief operations.
Initially, Assam requires 78 co-districts to meet the administrative needs of its citizens. In the first phase, 39 have already been established, with the remaining set to be operational by early next year. Of the 39 inaugurated, 21 were launched on Friday and 18 on Saturday.
Sarma also took the opportunity to underscore the government’s commitment to fulfilling its electoral promises, stating that many initiatives have even exceeded what was outlined in the party’s manifesto. He cited the declaration of Assamese as a classical language, the recognition of the Charaideo maidams as a UNESCO heritage site, and setting a world record for the Bihu dance as examples of the government’s proactive approach.
Moreover, the chief minister praised the synergy created by the BJP-led government at both the state and central levels, which he termed as a “double-engine government.” He expressed his determination to continue advancing beyond the electoral promises and driving development initiatives forward.
In summary, Assam’s innovative governance strategies, particularly the establishment of co-districts, not only aim to streamline public services but also set a benchmark for administrative practices that other states in India may soon adopt.
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