Assam to launch Indigenous OTT platform and satellite to mitigate flood

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has unveiled an ambitious vision for the state through the Assam Budget 2024, emphasizing economic growth, technological advancements, and sustainability.

While dismissing the notion of an election-driven, populist budget, Sarma asserted that his government remains committed to empowering the poor and middle class while steering Assam toward becoming a front-runner among Indian states.

A key highlight of the budget is the establishment of proton beam therapy in Assam, positioning the state as a hub for medical tourism. This initiative follows the government’s collaboration with Tata to set up 17 hospitals and marks a significant step in improving cancer treatment accessibility in the region.

Further strengthening Assam’s technological landscape, the Chief Minister announced the launch of an Assam-specific satellite in partnership with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Given the state’s vulnerability to floods, this satellite will aid in flood prediction, border management, and support the agricultural sector.

The budget also envisions Assam emerging as a soft power in the digital sphere, with plans to launch an indigenous Over-The-Top (OTT) platform. This initiative aims to promote local content and culture while boosting the regional entertainment industry.

In a move toward a carbon-neutral economy, the government is encouraging global investors to offset their carbon footprint in Assam by investing in green energy projects. This strategy is expected to transform Assam into a major industrial destination while aligning with global sustainability goals.

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Highlighting Assam’s rapid economic growth, Sarma stated that while India’s GDP is growing at 9%, Assam is outpacing this at 13%. The state’s capital expenditure has surged from ₹3,000 crore a decade ago to ₹25,000 crore this year, reflecting its strong financial position and infrastructure expansion.

The budget also prioritizes wildlife conservation, including measures to insulate power cables to prevent animal electrocution and the introduction of Napier grass cultivation to mitigate human-elephant conflict. 

Urban planning initiatives include the development of Guwahati as a 'Bamboo City,' mandating a minimum 5% bamboo component in new constructions, and infrastructure upgrades such as Metro and inland water transport expansion.

Addressing land reforms, Sarma announced the implementation of the Justice Biplab Sharma Committee’s recommendations concerning Clause 6 of the Assam Accord. Select revenue blocks will now be restricted to land transactions involving indigenous Assamese people. Additionally, while the state had previously banned inter-religious land transfers, a new policy will permit them under government scrutiny to prevent communal tensions.

The government also plans to create 100 AI-powered smart villages and bolster aerial connectivity with drone technology. To improve urban mobility, a consultant will be engaged to explore a ropeway connection between Khanapara and Guwahati Airport, modeled after Varanasi’s successful ropeway system.

Sarma reiterated that despite the upcoming elections, the budget reflects confidence and Assam’s growing stature on the national stage. 

The government remains focused on economic expansion, infrastructural transformation, and sustainable development, ensuring Assam’s continued resurgence in India’s growth story.