Assam cabinet orders CBI probe into July floods, raises paddy MSP

Guwahati – On Tuesday, the Assam Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma approved a request to the Centre for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the July floods that devastated Upper Assam. The cabinet also announced an additional state incentive of ₹200 per quintal for paddy procurement, raising the effective Minimum Support Price (MSP) to ₹2,640 per quintal for the upcoming harvest season. The Sentinel Assam reported these decisions.

CBI investigation into July floods

The cabinet resolved to formally ask the Centre to start a CBI inquiry within ten days. The investigation will focus on the root causes of the deluge that struck the Sivasagar and Charaideo districts, where allegations of computational errors and structural lapses in water management have been raised. Chief Minister Sarma said, "The scale of destruction in Sivasagar and Charaideo requires a thorough, independent investigation. The CBI will look into the technical and systemic vulnerabilities that led to this man-made crisis so we can prevent such catastrophes in the future." The statement underscores the government's intent to examine both technical and systemic factors behind the flooding.

Increase in paddy Minimum Support Price

In response to crop losses suffered during the monsoon, the cabinet approved an extra incentive of ₹200 per quintal for paddy procurement. This addition lifts the effective MSP to ₹2,640 per quintal for the forthcoming harvesting season. The measure aims to mitigate the financial impact on farmers and support the state's agricultural sector, which relies heavily on paddy cultivation.

Amendments to Assam Services Rules under UCC framework

The meeting also addressed the state's newly enforced Uniform Civil Code (UCC) framework by amending the Assam Services Rules. Under the new provision, any state government employee found practicing polygamy will face immediate dismissal from service, and the dismissal will also serve as a permanent disqualification from future government employment. This amendment aligns with the cabinet's broader policy direction under the UCC.

Infrastructure projects cleared

The cabinet cleared several infrastructure initiatives. It approved the allocation of land for a 6,000-bigha Defence Park near Nellie in Nagaon district. Additionally, five new ropeway projects were sanctioned under the central Parvatmala scheme, intended to boost tourism in the region. These projects were part of the cabinet's agenda to develop strategic and tourism-related infrastructure.