Assam Government approves grant of Rs 10,000 each to 6,953 Durga Puja Committees in the state

In a significant turn of events, the Assam Government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has taken a decisive step to provide financial grants of ₹10,000 each to 6,953 Durga Puja Committees across the state. The decision, which was officially announced by Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah yesterday, marks a departure from the previous stance of the government and is expected to have a positive impact on the organisation of Durga Puja festivities.

This decision follows a notable shift in the Government’s perspective regarding financial aid to Durga Puja Committees. In the past, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had expressed reservations about providing government assistance to religious functions, which was perceived as an implicit disapproval of similar grants offered by the West Bengal Government to Durga Puja Committees in Bengal. However, the recent cabinet meeting, held under Chief Minister Sarma’s leadership, signifies a change in approach and a willingness to support Durga Puja Committees in Assam.

The allocation of ₹10,000 grants to each of the 6,953 Durga Puja Committees is expected to provide a boost to their budgets and is set to ease the logistical and financial burdens associated with organising Durga Puja, allowing them to enhance the quality of the festivities and provide a more vibrant cultural experience for the people of Assam