Initiatives aimed at building an Assam where women lead transformation: CM Sarma on 100 days of NDA 3.0

Guwahati, Aug 20 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday highlighted the state government’s continued focus on women’s empowerment, education, livelihoods and healthcare, saying the initiatives under the first 100 days of NDA 3.0 are aimed at building an Assam where women lead the transformation.

Sharing the progress of various schemes on social media, CM Sarma said the government has strengthened programmes aimed at helping women become self-reliant while ensuring that girls receive better access to education, healthcare and opportunities.

Under the Lakhimi Mistri initiative, more than 6,875 women are undergoing training to become certified rural masons under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G).

The initiative seeks to provide women with technical skills and sustainable livelihood opportunities while increasing their participation in rural construction.

The government also highlighted progress under Swanirbhar Naari, through which more than 1,051 weavers and 60 women entrepreneurs have been supported. As many as 48,338 benchmarked products have been procured, with Rs 1.33 crore released to strengthen women-led livelihoods.

Education and prevention of child marriage remain another major focus. Under the Nijut Moina scheme, around 5.16 lakh girl students are expected to benefit during 2026-27, with the government positioning continued education as an important tool in strengthening the fight against child marriage.

The state also highlighted direct financial support for mothers under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). As many as 78,490 eligible beneficiaries have been registered, while Rs 23.26 crore has been transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), providing financial assistance to women during motherhood.

CM Sarma also pointed to improvements in maternal and adolescent healthcare. Assam’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has declined to 84, below the national average of 87, marking the first time the state has reported a lower MMR than the national figure. Additionally, 2.94 lakh adolescent girls have received vaccinations, strengthening preventive healthcare among young women.

The government said the initiatives collectively seek to expand women’s access to capital, education, skills, livelihoods and healthcare, while creating stronger institutional support for mothers and girls.

–IANS

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