Assam Autonomous Councils Hold Summit on Governance and Community Empowerment
Leaders from various ethnic communities across Assam convened for a two-day summit of autonomous councils not covered under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The summit focused on governance strategies and community empowerment initiatives.
Representatives from diverse communities, including Rabha-Hasong, Mising, Tiwa, Deuri, Thengal-Kachari, Sonowal-Kachari, Bodo-Kachari, Moran, Mottock, and the Kamatapur area, gathered to discuss crucial issues affecting their regions.
During the inaugural session chaired by Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary, participants emphasized the need to strengthen operational frameworks within the legal framework governing these councils. Daimary highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in governance to ensure effective service delivery and community welfare.
State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of Assam’s scheduled tribes, constituting 17.5% of the state’s population. He outlined government initiatives such as educational reservations and employment opportunities aimed at improving the socio-economic status of these communities. Hazarika emphasized the role of education in shaping the future of tribal communities and called for integrity and transparency in council operations.
Education Minister Ranoj Pegu stressed the councils’ responsibility in safeguarding and promoting the linguistic, cultural, and economic interests of their communities. Pegu highlighted the importance of sustainable development practices and cultural heritage preservation in achieving long-term community prosperity.
The summit also witnessed the participation of Cabinet ministers Nandita Garlosa and UG Brahma, demonstrating the government’s support for collaborative efforts to enhance governance structures and promote community welfare initiatives across Assam.
The summit concluded with a commitment to continue dialogue and policy formulation aimed at strengthening the role of autonomous councils in governance and community empowerment throughout the state.
