Assam Focuses on Self-Reliance & Women Development, Says CM Sarma

By: WE Staff | Wednesday, 7 January 2026

• Assam is evolving from depending on other states for basic goods to now supporting and contributing to the economy
• The focus of Assam has changed to self-sufficiency, women's development, and ongoing peace

Commenting on the occasion, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while announcing the budget estimates for 2023-2024 on 6th January 2023, stated that the state was "gradually weaning itself away from other states for its basic needs to supply more to its economy with a focus on self-reliance, women-led development, and peace as a strategy for transformation with unity, cooperation, and collective."

In a public program, Himanta said, “So far, we are depending on eggs and fish from West Bengal, and for milk, we depend on Gujarat. Today, we are witnessing the changing scenario with increased production from small-scale enterprises, specifically the ones run by women. The ‘Lakhpati Didis’ program by the government would be a significant factor for the village economy.”

Chief Minister Bipin Singh Ray explained the purpose of the project by stating that if 40 lakhs of women were to be involved in small business activities, it would result in the production of the economy to the tune of Rs 32,000 crores.

Again, eight lakhs “Lakhpati Didis” would be formed, along with another eight lakhs the next year, which would bolster the village economy.

Himanta mentioned the economic development of Assam, adding, “We have achieved 8.5 lakh metric tons of rice production, and our tourism business is progressing well.” He also stated, “Production of all commodities within the state is giving employment and developing our economy.”

The Chief Minister also touched on some long-term trends, saying that the Assam economy registered a growth of almost 45 percent between 2020 and 2025. This, according to his vision, would help shift it from among the top 15 to 16 positions to the top 10 positions.

He spoke of the improvements relating to law and order, which have encouraged tourism and the establishment of businesses, particularly among the youth. However, he highlighted the need to be vigilant to ensure that the growth is maintained.

The Chief Minister concluded by saying that ultimately peace is a necessity for sustained development and that Assam needs to be vigilant in its efforts to ensure development and peace.