The Swanirbhar Nari – Atmanirbhar Assam Scheme, launched in 2020 by then Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, aims to uplift economically disadvantaged women across Assam. This transformative initiative is poised to benefit around 4 lakh families in its first phase, creating approximately 3.72 lakh sustainable individual assets and 822 community assets.
Implementation Under MGNREGA
The scheme is integrated with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), converging with various state department initiatives and missions. It includes partnerships with:
- Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission
- Agriculture & Horticulture
- Fishery
- Environment & Forest
- Handloom and Textiles
- Sericulture
- Veterinary and Animal Husbandry
This multi-sectoral approach is designed to maximize the scheme’s impact on rural women’s livelihoods.
Asset Creation
Individual Assets
Under individual asset creation, five key activities will be implemented in all Development Blocks. These assets aim to provide sustainable income-generating opportunities for women.
Community Assets
For community asset creation, 20 activities are planned across selected Development Blocks. This will foster collective growth and infrastructure development.
To ensure effective implementation, monitoring committees from the panchayat to the state level have been established.
Recognizing the Power of Women in Assam
Assam has a rich history of courageous women leaders such as Sati Joymati, Sati Sadhani, Kanaklata Baruah, Magri Orang, and Indira Miri. Inspired by these icons, the Swanirbhar Nari – Atmanirbhar Assam Scheme underscores the industrious spirit of Assamese women. The Chief Minister encouraged women to commit fully to the scheme’s success, showcasing their dedication and resilience.
Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)
The Chief Minister highlighted the pivotal role of Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) representatives in the scheme’s success. He called on them to support Self-Help Group (SHG) beneficiaries and perform their duties with honesty and dedication. The state government has warned of strict action against panchayats involved in corrupt practices or negligence.
Awards for Best Performing Panchayats
To encourage active participation and excellence, the government announced awards for the top three performing panchayats:
- 1st Prize: Rs. 3 lakh
- 2nd Prize: Rs. 2 lakh
- 3rd Prize: Rs. 1 lakh
A Holistic Approach to Development
The Swanirbhar Nari – Atmanirbhar Assam Scheme represents a significant step toward women’s empowerment and equitable development. The Assam government is committed to ensuring:
- Distribution of land pattas to over 1 lakh landless Indigenous families
- Land rights for small tea growers
- Preservation of religious sites like satras and namghars through eviction drives against encroachers
- Efforts to combat corruption, illegal migration, insurgency, and pollution
Conclusion
By integrating resources, fostering community participation, and strengthening rural infrastructure, the Swanirbhar Nari – Atmanirbhar Assam Scheme envisions a self-reliant future for women in Assam. This initiative empowers women and lays the foundation for sustainable development across the state.
