Assam cabinet hikes tea garden wages, recommends fast-track trial in Zubeen Garg case

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on February 26 announced a series of key decisions taken by the state cabinet, including an interim hike in daily wages for tea garden workers, a one-time financial assistance for women beneficiaries under the Orunodoi scheme, a reduction in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) VAT, and a recommendation for a fast-track hearing in the Zubeen Garg murder case.

Addressing the media after the cabinet meeting, Sarma said the daily wages of tea garden workers have been increased by Rs 30 as an interim measure. He clarified that the final wage structure will be fixed in accordance with the new labour code once the rules are notified. “The labour code has been approved, but the rules are yet to be finalised. Once the rules are approved, wages will be revised further,” he said.

The Chief Minister also announced that the cabinet has approved a one-time payment of Rs 9,000 to all beneficiaries of the Orunodoi scheme. He said nearly 40 lakh women across the state will receive the additional assistance on March 10, 2026. “This is an extra support measure to benefit women from economically weaker sections,” Sarma added.

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On the legal front, the cabinet has recommended to the Gauhati High Court the constitution of a fast-track court for day-to-day hearing of the murder case of Zubeen Garg. Sarma said the move aims to ensure a speedy trial and timely justice in the case.

In a bid to boost aviation connectivity and reduce operational costs, the cabinet has also decided to cut value-added tax on aviation turbine fuel by five per cent. The reduction will bring ATF prices in Guwahati on par with those in Kolkata, the Chief Minister said, adding that the step is expected to encourage more flights and improve air connectivity from Assam.

Additionally, Sarma said the cabinet has recommended the setting up of a new ship-building industrial unit in Assam as part of the state’s industrial expansion plans.

The decisions, the Chief Minister said, reflect the government’s focus on labour welfare, women-centric support, infrastructure development, investment promotion and expediting justice.