Assam Government approves Rs. 226 cr Unity Mall Project, set to create 2 lakh jobs

Guwahati: The Assam Government has made several important decisions during its cabinet meeting.

During the cabinet meeting the government has approved the construction of Unity Mall at the Assam Trade Promotion Organisation complex in Betkuchi. This mall aims to promote the 'Make in India' initiative and national integration. It will feature 35 showrooms representing all States and Union Territories, with uniform stall sizes. Additionally, it will have food courts offering cuisine from all parts of India, including traditional food from the North-eastern Region (NER). This project is expected to cost Rs. 226 crore and will support the 'One District, One Product' (ODOP) concept. It will provide marketing support to traditional industries and craftsmen from Assam's 35 districts and promote Assam's products.

The Cabinet has also drafted guidelines for the 'Mukhya Mantri Atmanirbhar Asom' initiative, which aims to generate employment opportunities by establishing new entrepreneurial ventures. The government plans to target 2 lakh eligible beneficiaries over the next two years, with 1 lakh beneficiaries targeted in each of FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-25. Financial assistance under this scheme will be a combination of a government grant and interest-free government loans. Beneficiaries will have to repay the loan after 5 years to establish micro-enterprises or service units. Selected beneficiaries will undergo a 1-month training program in selected educational or skill training institutions to enhance their entrepreneurship, management, and accounting skills. They will also receive a stipend of Rs. 10,000 during this training period.

Also, a portal for registration details of eligibility and eligible activities will be launched on September 23, 2023, to facilitate the implementation of the 'Mukhya Mantri Atmanirbhar Asom' initiative.

ALSO READ: US Government accuses Google of $10 billion annual payments to safeguard online search monopoly