CM Himanta Biswa Sarma distributes fiscal aid to naamgharias, priests

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: As per the announcement made by the state government at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday ceremonially distributed a one-time grant of Rs 10,000 each to 6,124 naamghariyas and 2,438 priests of Assam.

Speaking on the occasion at the Janata Bhawan here, the Chief Minister said that the assistance to the naamghars and mandirs is being given not on religious grounds but because these constitute an important component of Assam's culture.

"There is a very thin line between religion and culture. A mandir is not just a place of worship, it also reflects our ancient culture and history. Naamghars, too, are keeping alive our cultural identity. Naam-kirtan are performed in naamghars, but these are also part of our culture", Sarma said.

Sarma said that while 10 naamgharias and 10 priests were ceremonially given fiscal aid today, the other beneficiaries would also receive the grant in their respective bank accounts within a few hours.

The Chief Minister mentioned that the government is also taking several steps for development and preservation of various naamghars and mandirs.

Sarma also informed that the state government will formally take over the ancestral house of deceased singer Pratima Pandey Barua in the Dhubri district from her family on January 1 next and convert into a memorial museum.

Also Read: Asom Sattra Mahasabha seeks development package of xatras and naamghars urgently

Also Watch: