A Correspondent
DIBRUGARH: Union Minister of Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi visited Dibrugarh on Sunday to assess and review the progress of various women and child welfare initiatives in the district.
Later, addressing a press conference at the Circuit House, the Union Minister highlighted the remarkable strides made under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
She said that women’s labour force participation in the country increased from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24, driven by state-led employment programmes.
She applauded the relentless efforts of grassroots workers and assured continued government support in expanding opportunities for skill development and financial independence.
Annpurna Devi encouraged community participation in developing sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment for women. Further highlighting Assam’s progress under the double engine government model, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Minister commended the state’s remarkable efforts in preventing child marriage, strengthening maternal and child healthcare, and promoting women’s empowerment through skill development and entrepreneurship programs.
She also spoke about enhanced investment in early childhood nutrition programs like SNP (Supplementary Nutrition Program) and Mission Poshan 2.0 to combat malnutrition.
Reflecting on the government’s steadfast commitment to women-led development, she mentioned that the Union Budget 2024-25 has allocated substantial resources to empower women, support children, and strengthen family welfare programs. She said that Rs 24.49 lakh crore were allocated for women’s development in this year budget, marking a significant increase from previous years. She added that under Stand-Up India Scheme, ceiling limit for term loans has been increased up to 2 crore for first-time women entrepreneurs.
She said that special emphasis on rural electrification and infrastructure projects has been given to improve the quality of life for women in remote areas. With landmark projects like the Bogibeel Bridge and India-East Asia connectivity initiatives, Assam is emerging as a hub of economic activity and industrial expansion. The establishment of AIIMS Guwahati and technology parks is paving the way for improved healthcare facilities and job opportunities in the region.
About infrastructure development milestones, she said that since 2024, 11,824 km of new railway tracks have been constructed in the Northeast and Eastern regions, surpassing previous milestones. The Railway Budget allocation has increased fivefold from Rs 2,122 crore in 2009-14 to Rs 10,440 crore in 2025-26.
“Over the past decade, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Assam has witnessed remarkable infrastructure growth, ensuring better connectivity, healthcare facilities, and employment opportunities for its people,” Annpurna Devi remarked.
She mentioned that women in Assam are playing a crucial role in shaping the state’s economic and social landscape. The government’s initiatives have empowered women to take on leadership roles in various sectors, from entrepreneurship to governance. The minister reiterated the government’s pledge to continue its mission of women-led development, ensuring every woman and child in Assam has access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Speaking about women empowerment initiatives, she said that Rs 25,000 crore has been allocated for setting up working women hostels in key industrial zones. 12 crore toilets and 12 crore tap connections have been provided over the past 10 years, improving sanitation and clean water accessibility.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to strengthening Assam’s socio-economic landscape. She expressed confidence that with the continued support of the people and the robust policies of the government, Assam will continue to scale new heights in development and prosperity.
Also Read: Union Minister Annpurna Devi Reviews Women and Child Welfare Initiatives in Assam
Also Watch: