Assam Cabinet Overhauls Khel Maharan and Approves New Green Tax

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed a major shakeup for state sporting events and administrative policies. The government cleared the third edition of Khel Maharan, which begins November 7. Officials split the event into two distinct categories. The Shoishab Krida Samaroh targets children under 12, while the standard Khel Maharan covers participants over 12. Competitions span eight disciplines: athletics, yogasana, chess, boxing, aquathlon, football, volleyball, and swimming. The goal is to track 300 top-tier young prospects. These athletes will receive structured training and better facilities to hone their skills.

Sarma noted the government wants to improve talent scouting. "The decision has been taken with the objective of speeding up promotions and providing eligible employees with earlier opportunities for career advancement," the Chief Minister said regarding internal staff changes. The cabinet cut the qualifying service period for Computer Operators moving to Junior Administrative Assistant roles in the Assam Secretariat. They dropped the requirement from four years down to three.

Ex-servicemen also see a change. The state raised the maximum age limit for Grade III and Grade IV government job applicants from 42 to 45 years. Students gain ground as well. The cabinet set aside Rs 109.38 crore to hand out free bicycles to Class IX students for the 2025-26 academic year. Finally, the administration adopted the Assam Green Cess Policy, 2026. This framework imposes environmental levies on specific high-impact sectors. Stone-crushing units, brick kilns, and imported timber top the list of industries facing the new tax.