In a significant Assam Cabinet meeting, several key decisions were taken to benefit State Government employees, streamline merchandise movement, and assist employees of the Assam State Agricultural Marketing Board (ASAMB), announced Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Housing Dreams Fulfilled
To help State Government employees realise their dreams of owning a home, the Cabinet approved the extension of the Apon Ghar Scheme until March 31, 2026. The loan threshold will be increased from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 30 lakh, with a 1 per cent interest subvention. So far, the Assam Government has provided Rs 596 crore in interest benefits to 37,277 employees.
Child Adoption Leave for Women
Recognising the importance of proper care for adopted children, the Cabinet approved 180 days of child adoption leave for female State Government employees adopting children below one year. This decision aligns with Rule 43-B of the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972, ensuring that adopted children receive the necessary care and nourishment.
Streamlining Merchandise Movement
To facilitate the smooth movement of merchandise goods within the State, the Cabinet approved the Assam Transportation of Merchandise Goods in Stage Carriage and Contract Carriage Buses Scheme, 2024, and amended Rule 67 of the Assam Motor Vehicle Rules, 2003. This will enhance the transportation of goods, crucial for the e-commerce sector.
Financial Assistance for ASAMB Employees
The Cabinet also approved a financial settlement scheme for ASAMB employees. This includes a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) for 612 regular employees and a one-time settlement or gratuity payment for 147 contingency or fixed-pay employees. The total fund allocated for this initiative is Rs 154 crore, with an additional 10 percent goodwill gesture on the settlement amount.
Settlement Formula:
Contingency Staff (131 employees):
Rs 5 lakh for up to 10 years of service
Rs 5.5 lakh for 10-15 years of service
Rs 6 lakh for over 15 years of service
Fixed Pay Employees (16 employees):
Rs 1.75 lakh for up to 10 years of service
Rs 1.93 lakh for 10-15 years of service
Rs 2.10 lakh for over 15 years of service
These decisions mark a significant step towards improving the welfare of State Government employees and enhancing the efficiency of operations in Assam.
