Assam Government announces formation of 81 new sub-districts replacing existing subdivisions for enhanced governance

In a significant move towards decentralisation and improved governance, the Assam Government announced today that it has taken a cabinet decision to establish 81 new sub-districts, effectively replacing the existing subdivisions in the state. This decision aims to bolster the convergence of line departments and promote efficient administration at the grassroots level. The new sub-districts are slated to begin functioning from January 1, 2024, with official notifications regarding their creation expected to be issued in the coming days.

Speaking to the press about this transformative decision, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated, “From now there will be no sub-divisions in Assam. Instead, we will have circles and sub-districts in each district. The sub-districts will be headed by additional district commissioners and will have all relevant government departments.”

Under the provisions of this cabinet resolution, a noteworthy reorganisation of administrative units will take place. In the Cachar district, the non-sadar sub-districts are set to be Lakhipur, Udharbond, Katigorah, Borkhola, Sonai, and Dholai, while the sadar sub-district will be Silchar. Meanwhile, in the Hailakandi district, the non-sadar sub-district will comprise Algapur-Katlicherra, and the sadar sub-district will be Hailakandi. In the Karimganj district, the non-sadar sub-districts are slated to be Karimganj South, Patharkandi and Ramakrishna Nagar with Karimganj North designated as the sadar sub-district.

This strategic move by the Assam Government is anticipated to reinvigorate governance mechanisms, ensuring more direct and effective administration at the grassroots level. By transitioning to a system of circles and sub-districts led by additional district commissioners, the state aims to facilitate better coordination among various government departments and enhance public service delivery.