Guwahati, 27 March (HS): Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita on Friday asserted that Assam’s rapid development is a result of the “double engine” government, and said the people of the state are keen to see its continuation for a third consecutive term.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP Election Office in Titabor ahead of the 2026 Assam Legislative Assembly elections, Margherita highlighted that coordinated governance between the Centre under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the State under Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has ensured faster decision-making and transparent implementation of schemes.

He said a strong public sentiment is emerging in favour of bringing back the double engine government, as people want to actively contribute to building a “Viksit and Surakshit Assam.” The Minister underlined that major investments, including the ₹27,000 crore semiconductor plant in the state, have been made possible due to seamless Centre-State coordination.

Drawing a contrast with non-double engine states, Margherita noted that lack of coordination elsewhere has led to delays in infrastructure and healthcare projects, as well as underutilisation of central funds. In Assam, however, development has accelerated across sectors such as railways, road connectivity, healthcare and industrial investment.

Highlighting the achievements of the state government, he said Assam is among the fastest-growing states in the country, with rising per capita income and increasing investments. He added that over 1.65 lakh government jobs have been provided with transparency and zero corruption, while welfare benefits are being directly transferred to beneficiaries through DBT.

On law and order, the Minister said Assam has moved away from its past marked by instability and extremism, entering a phase of peace and stability. He credited the leadership at the Centre for this transformation, adding that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act is now limited to only a few districts.

Margherita also spoke about efforts to preserve Assam’s cultural heritage, citing the development of sites associated with Srimanta Sankardev and the recognition of historic places like Charaideo. He said the government has honoured contributions of prominent personalities by naming institutions and infrastructure after them.

Emphasising inclusive growth, he highlighted initiatives for tea tribe communities, including land rights, reservation benefits and skill development programmes. He also pointed to women-centric schemes such as Orunodoi and Nijut Moina, along with subsidised ration programmes, benefiting lakhs of families.

Reiterating the importance of the double engine model, the Union Minister appealed to the people to support the formation of a strong BJP-led NDA government to continue Assam’s development journey.

BJP Jorhat district president Shantanu Pujari and party candidate for Titabor constituency Dhiraj Gowala were also present at the press conference.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash