Assam CM instructed DCs to only serve vegetarian food at govt events

GUWAHATI-  Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on July 29 said that his government will end the VIP culture, and only vegetarian and ‘satvik’ food will be served from now at every government programme.

Taking to X, CM instructed the district commissioners that there will be no unnecessary splurge for government functions. He further stated that the state government will phase out existing VIP protocols and align with what people appreciate, and only simple vegetarian meals will be served at all official meetings. However, he said this rule would not apply to state guests.

Also Read- APSC cash-for-job scam: Former Chairman Rakesh Paul Sentenced 14 years in jail

“My instruction to all officials is clear–no unnecessary splurge for government functions. We have to phase out earlier VIP protocols and align our governance with what people appreciate. Only simple vegetarian meals are to be served at all official meetings. This rule shall not apply to state guests,” Sarma said.

Meanwhile, the CM claimed that the unemployment rate in the state was gradually declining and stood at 6.1 percent in the 2023-24 financial year. Sarma said the BJP’s one of the major election promises as well as governance focus was to reduce unemployment and give the youths of the state ample growth opportunities.

Also Read- Assam’s 700-year-old Moidams get UNESCO World Heritage Site status

“After 3 years, the statistics speak for itself; unemployment is down to 6.1 percent and will further dip in the coming days when the results of our policy interventions will start to show up. “We are always committed to the youth of Assam!” he said in a post on X.

In a graphic analysis uploaded along with the post, the CM said the unemployment ratio was 8 percent in 2022-23. “State government’s proactive policies have ensured that Assam’s youths are engaged in meaningful employment,” he added.

Also Read- Mizoram – Assam to resume border talks after over a year

He, however, did not share the details if these new jobs were created in the public sector or private entities. Sarma further said that the government has supported startups through financial and policy assistance and empowered the self-help groups (SHGs).

The rapid infrastructure creation has also ensured ample job creation, he added. The post also mentioned the scheme ‘Atmanirbhar Asom Abhijan’, which was rolled out in September 2023 to help the youth set up their own ventures.