Assam Government Initiatives: CSR Authority and Others
In a significant move, the Assam government has given the nod for the creation of the Corporate Social Responsibility Authority of Assam (CSRAA) during a state cabinet meeting held in Tinsukia on Friday. The approval encompasses the establishment of an enabling environment for welfare activities, including the formulation of rules and regulations governing the CSRAA.
CSRRA’s Objective
The formation of CSRRA aims to identify critical gaps across various sectors and departments during the implementation of diverse schemes. By streamlining investments flowing through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, the government intends to align them with ongoing government initiatives, fostering comprehensive development in the state.
Municipal Bonds for Development Initiatives
As part of its financial strategy, the government has entrusted the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) with the issuance of municipal bonds under Section 124(1) of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation Act, 1971. An allocation of Rs 100 crore is earmarked for the Assam Tea Corporation Ltd (ATCL) to address the budget provision in 2023-24, specifically for the payment of interest on the delayed deposit of Provident Fund to the Assam Tea Employees Provident Fund Organisation (ATEPFO).
Assam State Prosecution Service Rules
The state cabinet has given the green light for amending the draft Assam State Prosecution Service Rules, 2023. The amendment aims to establish a clear methodology for the recruitment process within the Assam State Prosecution Service, enhancing the efficiency and transparency of the system.
Land Transfer for Educational Excellence
In a move to support educational infrastructure, the cabinet has approved the settlement, transfer, and reclassification of 10 bighas of land at Utar Fulung village under Barbongshar Mouza in North Guwahati Revenue Circle. The land will be transferred to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) to establish a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence in Guwahati.
Revamping of Paddy Procurement Process
To streamline the paddy procurement process, the Assam Food and Civil Supplies Corporation Ltd (AFCSCL) will implement Partial Decentralised Procurement (DCP) in Bongaigaon and Biswanath districts during the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2023-24. This initiative, estimated at a cost of 1.69 crore, involves a tripartite agreement among the Government of Assam, Food Corporation of India (FCI), and the Department of Food, Public Distribution, Government of India.
Inclusive Food Security
In an effort to enhance food security, the cabinet has approved amendments to Rule 4 of the Assam Food Security Rules, 2022. The proposed changes will ensure that State Government Muster Roll employees, daily wage earners, retired Grade-IV employees of Central and State Government, and contractual employees with an annual family income of less than 4 lakh are eligible for benefits under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). This move reflects the government’s commitment to providing free rice to underprivileged households in the state.
Month: Current Affairs - December, 2023
Category: India Nation & States Current Affairs