Assam is set to witness a significant infrastructure upgrade as Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced plans to enable fighter jets to land on the state’s national highways. The initiative, aimed at strengthening both connectivity and strategic capabilities, is expected to materialize later this year.
Speaking to the media after a Cabinet meeting in Dibrugarh, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that the highway connecting Dibrugarh and Jorhat is being upgraded to international standards. “Soon, Indian Air Force fighter jets will be able to land on this highway. Assam is on the brink of major developmental changes this year,” he stated.
In a subtle jab at critics, Himanta Biswa Sarma remarked that while some individuals question the government’s focus on ambitious projects, tangible progress is being made. “We are working on transformational projects, including underwater tunnels and world-class highways, and within a year, these developments will be visible to all,” he added.
Alongside infrastructure advancements, the state government has taken significant steps to boost business activities. In a landmark decision, the Cabinet approved 24-hour operations for shops in major cities like Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar. Previously, businesses had a designated weekly closing day, but the new policy allows them to remain open throughout the week.
For other urban areas, businesses can now operate until 2 a.m., while in rural regions, shops will be allowed to function until 11 p.m. The decision aims to provide greater flexibility to businesses and stimulate economic activity in the state.
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma also underscored the importance of worker welfare under the new policy. He emphasized that no employee should be compelled to work beyond nine hours per day, and businesses operating round the clock must employ a minimum of three workers to ensure fair shift distribution. “Employees in small businesses cannot work more than 48 hours a week. For shops running 24 hours, three shifts must be maintained, with each shift lasting no more than eight to nine hours,” he clarified.
The Chief Minister expressed optimism that these business-friendly measures would encourage growth, particularly during festive periods like Bihu and Puja. The government hopes that easing operational restrictions will enhance Assam’s commercial landscape and create new employment opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to economic development and progress.
