GUWAHATI, September 7: Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday reaffirmed his government's commitment to the welfare and socio-economic advancement of the tea tribes community following a series of discussions with representatives of major community organisations, including the All Assam Tea Tribes Students' Association (AATTSA), Chah Janajati Mahila Samiti, and the All Adivasi Students' Association (AASA).
The meetings focused on addressing long-pending concerns of the tea tribes community, with particular emphasis on improving access to educational opportunities, reservation benefits, and government welfare schemes. Community representatives also raised issues related to social development, recognition, and measures to strengthen the economic well-being of tea garden workers and their families.
Addressing the media after the meetings, Chief Minister Sarma announced that the state government would expedite the issuance of certificates for members of the tea tribes community through district-level Advisory Boards. The streamlined process is expected to enable eligible beneficiaries to obtain the necessary certificates more efficiently, allowing students and other applicants to access reservation benefits in educational institutions and government services without unnecessary delays.
The Chief Minister said the government is committed to ensuring that administrative procedures do not become obstacles for deserving members of the community. He added that faster certificate issuance would help students pursue higher education and improve their prospects for employment and social mobility.
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"Our government remains firmly committed to ensuring the holistic development of the tea garden community," Sarma said, adding that discussions also covered several welfare initiatives aimed at strengthening socio-economic support mechanisms for tea tribes across the state.
The tea tribes community, one of Assam's largest and historically marginalized social groups, plays a vital role in the state's globally renowned tea industry. For decades, community organisations have sought greater educational opportunities, improved welfare measures, and enhanced recognition.
The latest announcement is being viewed as a significant step toward addressing these long-standing demands while promoting inclusive development, social justice, and equal opportunities. The government expressed confidence that the initiative would contribute to the empowerment of tea tribes and further strengthen their participation in Assam's educational and economic progress.
