Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma declares drought-like conditions in five western districts due to a 40% rainfall deficit. The government also launches a Rs 342 crore scheme for tea garden workers and hikes daily wages, offering critical relief to farmers and labourers during an uneven monsoon season.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday confirmed that five districts in western Assam are currently experiencing drought-like conditions due to severely deficient rainfall this monsoon season. The districts—Kokrajhar, Barpeta, Dhubri, Baksa, and Bongaigaon—have recorded an alarming 40% deficit in rainfall, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).
Addressing a press conference after a state cabinet meeting in Guwahati, CM Sarma said, “In view of the situation, the Revenue Department will officially declare these districts as drought-affected.” He assured that farmers who insured their crops under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) will receive compensation for crop losses due to the prevailing dry conditions.
While these five western districts are experiencing a rainfall shortfall, the Chief Minister also mentioned that certain eastern Assam districts are facing erratic rainfall, with conditions ranging from deficient to excessive, thereby creating unpredictable agricultural conditions across the state.
Relief for Farmers and Tea Garden Workers
Alongside addressing the agricultural crisis, the Assam Cabinet has also made significant strides in social welfare by approving a Rs 342 crore financial package under a new scheme titled ‘Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli Duti Paat’, aimed at supporting the welfare of tea garden workers across the state.
“This is a token of gratitude to the tea garden workers for their immense contribution to Assam’s identity and economy,” CM Sarma said, describing the program as part of the government’s broader year-long celebration of 200 years of Assam Tea.
The scheme will offer a one-time financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to nearly 7 lakh eligible tea garden workers, including both permanent and temporary workers. The funds will be directly transferred to the Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of the beneficiaries, promoting financial inclusion and social equity.
Wage Hike for Tea Garden Labourers
In a separate welfare initiative, the Assam government also announced a hike in daily wages for tea garden labourers working under the Assam Tea Corporation Limited (ATCL). The revised wage will now stand at Rs 250 per day, effective from October 1, and is expected to significantly improve the livelihood of thousands of tea garden workers across the state.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), CM Sarma wrote, “Moment of joy for our hardworking Cha Shramiks! Starting October 1, workers of ATCL tea gardens will get an enhanced wage of Rs 250/day, which will help them boost their livelihood and support their families.”
Reiterating the state government’s commitment to the tea tribe community, Sarma added, “Govt of Assam: Dedicated to the welfare of our tea tribe’s community.”
Balancing Crisis Management and Social Justice
The dual announcements—of drought relief and tea worker welfare—reflect the Assam government’s focused approach toward crisis management and social justice. On one hand, the administration is moving swiftly to mitigate the effects of the agricultural drought, and on the other, it is investing in the upliftment of one of the state’s most historically significant and economically vital workforces.
The 2024 monsoon season has presented Assam with multiple challenges—from irregular rainfall patterns to economic pressures on vulnerable farming and labour communities. As the government prepares to declare formal drought status in the affected districts, implementation of PMFBY compensation and new welfare schemes is expected to provide a much-needed financial cushion to thousands of rural families.
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By linking relief with digitally enabled bank transfers, the state is also promoting transparency and reducing the risk of middlemen, in line with broader Digital India goals. Moreover, as Assam continues to celebrate two centuries of tea cultivation, the Mukhya Mantri Eti Koli Duti Paat initiative reinforces the state’s dedication to preserving and honoring its tea legacy.
