New CM Secretariat will oversee administrative functions for nine districts of Upper Assam: CM

In a significant step aimed at facilitating governance and bolstering equal development of all areas, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Dibrugarh today.

It may be noted that the new CM Secretariat would ensure the continuous monitoring of State and Central Government schemes and projects. It would expedite the redressal of grievances and petitions, while enhancing administrative connectivity covering 21,264 sq kms and a population of nearly 79 lakhs across the nine districts of Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Sivasagar, Charaideo, Majuli, Jorhat, and Golaghat.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister Dr. Sarma reflected on the decision made during a Cabinet Meeting in 2023 and affirmed that the vision of establishing a Secretariat in Dibrugarh, renowned for its universities, medical colleges, vital industries, and numerous tea gardens, has now come to fruition. He emphasised that the new office would oversee administrative functions for the nine districts. Dr. Sarma stated that the Dibrugarh Secretariat would be technologically integrated with Dispur Secretariat, ensuring uninterrupted governance and operational efficiency, regardless of whether the Chief Minister is based in Dibrugarh or Dispur.

He assured that this integration would ensure uniformity between the two Secretariats, thereby facilitating a cohesive approach to administration and development efforts for Dibrugarh and other Upper Assam districts. Further underscoring Dibrugarh’s growing prominence, the CM announced plans for the construction of a Ministerial Bhawan for the Cabinet Ministers, as well as a section of the Secretariat for the Chief Secretary. A state-of-the-art Convention Centre and an auditorium with a capacity of hosting up to 1,000 people would also be established to facilitate regional meetings and events. Dr. Sarma also highlighted that during his visits, there would be three-hour sessions for each constituency to facilitate comprehensive discussions. In these sessions, MLAs, Deputy Commissioners, Circle Officers, OCs, Block Development Officers, and other officials will also remain present with the aim of effectively addressing and resolving pending matters.

Looking ahead, the Chief Minister announced that, in accordance with the Cabinet’s decision, the flag hoisting ceremony on Independence Day would continue to be held in Guwahati, while Republic Day celebrations would now take place in Dibrugarh. He added that by December of the coming year, a segment of the Assam Secretariat would be established in Dibrugarh. Dr. Sarma expressed confidence that these initiatives would elevate Dibrugarh’s stature as a pivotal district as well as a city. He also underscored that the Dibrugarh Secretariat would be instrumental in strengthening relations with the neighbouring states of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.