Assam to have GAC, plans five more councils

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said his government had already decided to create the Garo Autonomous Council and was actively considering creation of four more Development Councils for Kumar, Madahi, Sut and Hajong communities and a separate council for SCs.

After hoisting the National Flag on the occasion of 66th Republic Day celebrations here, he said the government continues to ensure all-round development of people belonging to Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, tea tribes, hill districts and minority communities.

"Special emphasis will be given to women empowerment and education of minorities and tea tribes. The government of Assam is also firmly committed to the welfare and all-round development of the BTAD and two hill districts' autonomous councils," Gogoi said.

Developmental schemes to the tune of Rs 703 crore are being implemented in 15 minority-dominated districts under multi-sectoral development programme (MsDP) for improvement of education, water supply, health and other sectors, he added.