Assam Government Launches ₹600-Crore Skill Development Initiative

Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on August 22, 2025, that the state cabinet has approved a significant initiative aimed at enhancing skill education. The project, valued at ₹600 crore, will establish skill education centres throughout Assam in collaboration with the Tata Group subsidiary Nelco.

During a press conference following the cabinet meeting, Sarma outlined the project’s structure. It will involve a partnership between Nelco and the Sarba Siksha Abhiyan (SSA), focusing on a unique hub-and-spoke model for skill education. The initiative will include the establishment of 50 hubs and 500 spokes across the state, with 75 percent of the funding provided by Tata Group and the remaining portion from the Assam government.

In the initial phase, the project will set up 10 hubs and 70 spokes, which will serve as secondary and higher secondary schools approved under SSA. Each hub will introduce 10 futuristic trades or sectors, staffed by two trainers. The smaller spoke centres will offer two trades each, also with two trainers, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience. Connectivity between the hubs and spokes will be supported through satellite communication provided by Nelco.

Supporting Housing Initiatives and Higher Education

In addition to the skill development initiative, the Assam cabinet has approved the ceremonial distribution of sanction letters to 314,773 beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G). Sarma expressed appreciation for the support from the central government, highlighting the announcement of an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) to be established in Guwahati. He stated that this development would enhance higher education and research in the region, creating new opportunities for the youth of northeastern India.

Sarma criticized the previous Congress-led government for failing to secure AIIMS or IIM facilities for Assam, noting that both institutions were instead allocated to Shillong. His remarks reflect ongoing political tensions regarding development and resource allocation in the region.

Infrastructure Developments and Community Impact

The cabinet also approved the naming of a new four-lane flyover on GNB Road, from Dighali Pukhuri to Noonmati, as the ‘Maharaj Prithu Flyover’. This decision aims to inspire and motivate current and future generations of Assam’s indigenous population.

The recent approvals by the Assam cabinet signal a commitment to enhance educational opportunities, housing support, and infrastructure development. As the state moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering growth and innovation for its youth, particularly in the context of rapid societal changes.