Assam Cabinet nod to 5 projects worth over Rs 2,000 cr

Guwahati: The Assam Cabinet has approved five major projects with an investment of Rs 2,963.15 crore. 
The projects are expected to generate employment opportunities for around 4,700 individuals and are aimed at accelerating economic growth, creating jobs, boosting local businesses, attracting investments and improving infrastructure.
To simplify the pension disbursal process for retiring heads of offices such as principals and headmasters, the Cabinet authorised the next senior-most officer to forward pension proposals to the Accountant General and the Director of Pension through the Kritagyata portal. This measure is intended to alleviate difficulties faced by retiring officials and ensure a smoother pension disbursement process.
The Cabinet approved the amendment of the Assam Tourism Service Rules for the year 2023. As part of this amendment, the position of the ‘Tourist Information Officer’ will be redesignated as ‘Tourism Development Officer’, while the position of the ‘Assistant Tourist Information Officer’ will be redesignated as ‘Assistant Tourism Development Officer’. 
In a move to combat corruption, the government decided to introduce a new Schedule of Offences that will fall under the jurisdiction of the Chief Minister’s Special Vigilance Cell. This initiative is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity within the government and public services.
The Cabinet also approved the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence for badminton in North Guwahati. This facility will provide world-class training and development opportunities for emerging badminton players from across the country. 
Assam plans to sign an MoU with the Badminton Association of India for 25 years, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 10 years. A management committee comprising five members will oversee the operations and administration of the centre.
The government has further decided to reimburse state and local taxes borne by the Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL) during the implementation of rural electrification projects. This decision aims to cover flagship schemes aimed at electrifying previously un-electrified villages and ensuring 100% electrification of villages in Assam.