Mumbai, August 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced significant decisions following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday. These decisions encompass various issues, including higher education, administrative restructuring, mental health services, child protection, and youth welfare, reflecting the state government’s focus on expanding institutional infrastructure and social services.
Speaking to reporters, Sarma revealed that 574 bighas of land will be allocated for the proposed Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Guwahati. This initiative is expected to strengthen the state’s higher education ecosystem and create new opportunities for students and researchers.
The Chief Minister also unveiled plans to give a new identity to the Assam Secretariat, where 32 departments will operate from the secretariat complex. This restructuring aims to streamline government operations and integrate multiple departments under a more cohesive administrative framework.
In another crucial announcement, the government will introduce a new regulatory framework for mental health care facilities. Sarma stated that counseling centers with 50 or more individuals will be required to register, ensuring proper oversight and accountability for such institutions.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state government will promote greater participation and transparency in development activities, seeking cabinet approval wherever necessary.
The Assam Cabinet also approved amendments related to juvenile justice provisions and the Assam State Child Protection Bill, 2026. The proposed changes aim to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for the protection and welfare of children.
Sarma announced that the state will launch a new youth-focused framework on September 17, with the Department of Youth and Welfare playing a significant role in coordinating programs for young people.
These announcements come at a time when the Assam government is striving to expand educational infrastructure, improve administrative efficiency, and strengthen social sector institutions. The proposed IIM Guwahati campus is expected to enhance Assam’s growing higher education landscape, while the suggested reforms in mental health care, child protection, and youth welfare could have a substantial impact on the state’s social policy.
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