Kokrajhar, August 13, 2025: Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced that the state government is planning to expand the network of tribal belts and blocks to strengthen the protection of indigenous land rights and prevent the transfer of tribal land to non-indigenous people. The announcement was made during his visit to Kokrajhar, where he addressed the media and participated in official programmes despite heavy rainfall.
The Chief Minister received an enthusiastic welcome from local residents and public representatives who gathered to attend the programmes. Speaking to reporters, Dr. Sarma reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding the land rights of Assam's indigenous communities, describing the expansion of tribal belts and blocks as an important step towards preserving their identity, culture, and traditional land ownership.
He said the proposed expansion would increase the number of notified areas where restrictions would apply on the purchase of land by outsiders, thereby ensuring stronger legal protection for indigenous communities. According to the Chief Minister, the initiative reflects the government's broader policy of protecting the interests of tribal and indigenous people while promoting balanced development across the state.
Speaking on the progress made in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Dr. Sarma said sustained efforts by the state government, in partnership with local stakeholders, have successfully restored and maintained peace in the region. He described peace as the government's "biggest commitment" and said it has created an enabling environment for economic growth, infrastructure development, education, and investment.
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The Chief Minister also highlighted the government's commitment to strengthening healthcare services. He reiterated that cancer treatment continues to be fully covered under both the Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Asom health insurance schemes, ensuring that eligible patients receive quality treatment without facing financial hardship.
Dr. Sarma said the government remains focused on delivering inclusive development while protecting the constitutional and cultural rights of indigenous communities. He added that the twin priorities of safeguarding land rights and improving access to essential services such as healthcare are central to the state's development agenda.
The visit underscored the Assam government's continued emphasis on peace, welfare, and sustainable development, particularly in the Bodoland Territorial Region, while reinforcing its commitment to protecting the interests of indigenous communities across the state.
