Hojai (Assam), 25 March (HS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced that bicycles will now be provided to students from Class 5 onwards, instead of Class 8, if the BJP returns to power in the 2026 Assembly elections.

Addressing a Vijay Sankalp rally at Lanka under Hojai district, the Chief Minister said the government would create two lakh jobs and enhance financial benefits under schemes such as Nijut Moina and Nijut Babu. He also promised financial assistance of ₹2 lakh to 10 lakh youths willing to start businesses, along with a continued focus on strengthening education for all students.

Campaigning for BJP candidate Shibu Mishra in the Lamding constituency, Sarma urged people to ensure the formation of a BJP government again in Assam. He further informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Hojai on April 5 or 6 for election campaigning.

Highlighting welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister said women receiving ₹10,000 would now be given ₹25,000, while under the Orunodoi scheme, ₹18,000 assistance would be provided. He also announced plans to distribute 15 lakh government houses across the state.

Taking a dig at the Congress, Sarma claimed that the opposition would not be able to implement such welfare schemes and accused it of lacking a development agenda.

He also outlined several local development commitments, including the introduction of a science stream at Lanka College, construction of an auditorium in Lanka, development of stadiums in Kaki and Lanka, and distribution of land pattas to eligible residents.

In another rally held in Hojai, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the large turnout in support of BJP candidate Shiladitya Dev, stating that the overwhelming public response reflected continued support for the party in the constituency.---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash