Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called on the Union government to increase funding limits for northeastern states through Externally Aided Projects. Speaking at a seminar in Shillong, Sarma urged Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to relax existing constraints, citing the region's proven ability to execute complex infrastructure initiatives efficiently.
Sarma noted that these projects are vital for the state, as they provide necessary capital for large-scale developments that would be challenging to finance through standard means. Currently, Assam manages approximately Rs 53,000 crore in active projects supported by external aid. These initiatives span diverse sectors, including power generation, transport infrastructure, healthcare, and advanced robotics.
Highlighting the success of these partnerships, the Chief Minister pointed to the early completion of the Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project as evidence of the state's capability. He also cited the ongoing construction of the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge and the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu as key examples of effective project implementation.
Beyond immediate funding, Sarma emphasized that international collaboration allows for the adoption of global best practices in governance and project management. In a statement posted on social media, he explained his advocacy for the region, saying, "On behalf of Assam and our sister states in the Northeast, I made a passionate appeal to the Finance Minister to allow our governments access to enhanced limits through Externally Aided Projects."
Externally Aided Projects utilize loans and financial assistance from international institutions, working in coordination with both state and central authorities to deliver public works. Stakeholders at the Shillong event focused on strengthening these partnerships to further improve regional development planning.
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