Multiple Foundations laid by Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Sonitpur

Tezpur: State Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for renovating the ancient Gupteshwar Devalaya at cost of Rs 10 crore under Asom Darshan Scheme in Sonitpur’s Singri area under Borchalla LAC.

As per the Asom Darshan Scheme-the Government of Assam had planned to develop various places of tourist interest, including those blessed with natural beauty as well as those of religious/ historical importance.

The State Finance Minister also announced for the better accommodation of the pilgrims and devotees the Government of Assam will introduce guest houses with modern facilities in the region.

He also stated to the introduction of more attractive centres for both domestic and foreign tourists in the region. “We intend to make provision of restrooms with separate toilet blocks for men & women, clean drinking water facilities, establish garbage disposal mechanisms,” said Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Earlier, while presenting Budget session 2019-20, Himanta Biswa Sarma stated in the August house of the Assam Legislative Assembly that the Government will focus on strengthening and improving the infrastructure in and around these sites and offer authentic, affordable experiences. “We will provide Rs.10 lakhs to each of the identified places and the scheme will be implemented by the Deputy Commissioners of the respective districts (or Principal Secretaries of 6th Schedule Area Districts, wherever applicable) and the necessary budget has been earmarked under the Transformation & Development Department.”

It may also be mentioned that the Government of Assam will increase the annuity amount by Rs 2 lakh for each religious institution. Further, a one-time grant of up to Rs 1 Lakh will be given to all these religious places for setting up CCTV cameras for enhanced security of the place as well as devotees.

Also, while laying the foundation stone of Borchalla Model School (Residential), he said that around Rs 30.42 crore budget would be earmarked for development of students’ hostel with a capacity of around 400, modern school administration building and teachers and staff hostel. Moreover, he laid the foundation stone for three RCC bridges and roads at Batachipur under Dhekiajuli LAC. Also, he distributed 130 smartphones to 130 sardars from 18 tea garden at a function held at Trimurti Bhavan in Dhekiajuli.