Jharkhand CM should learn from Assam’s development: CM Sarma

Guwahati (IANS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday advised Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to learn from Assam’s rapid development, particularly within its tea gardens.

Speaking to reporters, Sarma stated, “I welcome Hemant Soren to Assam. He can see the development that has taken place here over the years. He can visit tea garden areas and witness the transformation on the ground.”

Taking a swipe at the Jharkhand government, Sarma claimed that Soren could draw valuable lessons from Assam’s progress. “We now have good roads, better infrastructure, and focused welfare measures. Jharkhand lags behind in development; Soren can learn from the Assam model,” he remarked.

Political Sparring Over Tea Tribes

Sarma’s comments follow Hemant Soren’s recent visit to Assam, where the Jharkhand CM expressed confidence that the tea tribe communities—a critical voter base—might shift their support toward the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and its allies.

During his tour, Soren highlighted the struggles of tea garden workers, alleging that the community has not received promised benefits. His remarks signaled an attempt to expand JMM’s political footprint beyond Jharkhand ahead of the Assam Assembly elections.

Sarma Defends Assam’s Welfare Record

Reacting to Soren’s claims, Sarma asserted that the Assam government has successfully implemented targeted schemes for tea garden communities, including:

• Wage Increases: Substantial hikes in daily earnings for workers.

• Infrastructure: Improved housing and healthcare facilities within the estates.

• Education: Dedicated initiatives to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the youth.

With tea tribes remaining a decisive electoral group, both ruling and opposition parties are fighting to consolidate their support. As outside leaders enter the campaign trail, the electoral battle in Assam is intensifying through sharp rhetoric centered on development narratives and welfare delivery.