Assam’s Ambitious Energy Plans
Guwahati, Dec 8: Once struggling with power shortages, Assam is on a path to become a power surplus state by 2031, as announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday.
During a scooter distribution event under the Dr Banikanta Kakati Merit Award Scheme at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, Sarma revealed that the state aims to generate approximately 3,200 MW of thermal energy locally.
“We have transitioned from being a power-deficit state. By 2031, we will be able to supply electricity to neighboring states like Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Tripura, producing nearly 3,200 MW within Assam. Previously, we relied on purchasing 100–200 MW,” he stated.
Additionally, he announced that construction of an elevated corridor in Kaziranga is set to commence next month to enhance wildlife safety during flood seasons.
On the topic of infrastructure, Sarma mentioned that the upgraded Guwahati airport, constructed using engineered bamboo sourced from Assam, is expected to compete with major airports across the nation. “Post December 20, a comparison with Bangalore airport will show that ours is superior,” he noted.
In terms of education, the chief minister emphasized the significant growth in medical education, with the state currently offering 2,000 medical seats and plans for further expansion.
“We are adding over 1,000 medical seats annually, aiming for nearly 5,000 by 2030,” he added.
The event also highlighted the ongoing Dr Banikanta Kakati Merit Award Scheme, which has provided scooters to 1,86,442 students from 2017–18 to 2024–25.
This year, 11,250 students will receive scooters, including 6,860 girls and 4,390 boys, a significant decrease from last year’s 40,000 recipients. The government attributed this reduction to the introduction of the Nijut Moina Scheme, which offers monthly financial support to 5 lakh female college students.
A new support initiative for male students is set to launch on January 1, 2026, as announced by Sarma.
He encouraged students to adhere to “two golden rules” for scooty riding: obtaining a driving license and wearing helmets, in light of rising road accident statistics.
Sarma reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing the educational landscape in Assam.
