The Assam Cabinet approved the state’s Agroforestry Policy 2024, a landmark move aimed at boosting environmental sustainability and enhancing rural prosperity. This policy sets a framework to increase forest cover, mitigate climate change impacts, improve the rural economy, and uplift farmers’ income levels.

The Cabinet highlighted that the new policy will ensure a comprehensive approach toward agroforestry. “This decision will ensure a dedicated state policy on agriculture, mitigate the impacts of climate change, increase the area under Trees Outside Forest, and strengthen the rural economy and farmers’ earnings,” the statement read. Key initiatives under the policy include strengthening the State Agroforestry Board and establishing a reliable Quality Planting Material (QPM) supply chain. Additionally, it emphasizes integrating tree cultivation into existing agricultural practices, streamlining credit and insurance access for smallholder farmers, and promoting the use of wastelands and underutilized lands for tree cultivation.

In a significant push for rural development, the Cabinet also sanctioned 94 projects in the Soil Conservation and Agriculture sectors, with an investment of Rs 70.3332 crore. The projects include 64 soil conservation initiatives and 34 solar shallow tubewell minor irrigation schemes. These efforts are designed to improve water management and promote sustainable agriculture, reflecting the state’s commitment to rural advancement.

The funding for these initiatives will come under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF-XXX) of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), ensuring long-term benefits for the rural economy. By aligning soil conservation and irrigation projects, the policy aims to address critical agricultural challenges in Assam.

Moreover, the Cabinet meeting addressed amendments to the State GST Act to facilitate smoother tax processes and enhance ease of doing business in the state. These measures are expected to make Assam a more business-friendly environment, further boosting economic growth and development.

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With these strategic decisions, the Assam government is taking proactive steps to promote environmental conservation, agricultural growth, and rural development, aiming to create a sustainable and economically vibrant future.

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