New Delhi [India], August 21 (ANI): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the national capital and briefed her on the state's ongoing response to the recent floods, including the damage assessment and the roadmap for rebuilding affected areas and restoring livelihoods.
Sharing details of the meeting on X, Sarma said, "It is always a pleasure to meet Hon'ble Finance Minister Smt @nsitharaman Ji, who has consistently been a strong champion of Assam's interests and aspirations."
During the meeting at Kartavya Bhawan, the Chief Minister apprised the Union Finance Minister of the Assam Flood Response, with particular focus on the ongoing assessment of damage caused by the floods and the slew of measures on the anvil for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of affected areas.
He also outlined the state government's roadmap for restoring livelihoods and extending assistance to flood-affected families as part of the next phase of the response.
Sarma said the Union Finance Minister heard Assam's concerns "with great attention and sensitivity" and expressed gratitude for her positive response to the state's requirements.
Sitharaman assured the Chief Minister that the Government of India would continue to stand firmly with Assam as the state works towards helping flood-affected families rebuild their lives.
"I am deeply grateful for her positive response and assurance that the Government of India will stand firmly with Assam as we work to help every flood-affected family rebuild their lives," Sarma said in his post.
The Chief Minister's meeting with the Union Finance Minister comes as Assam continues to assess the impact of the floods and work on rehabilitation, reconstruction and restoration of livelihoods in the worst-hit Sivasagar, Charaideo and Jorhat districts.
Meanwhile, Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking immediate relief and rehabilitation measures for families affected by the devastating floods in Assam, including a demand for Rs 10 lakh financial assistance for every flood-affected family.
In his letter to the Prime Minister, Gogoi sought urgent intervention from the Centre to support families who have suffered extensive damage to their homes, agricultural land, livestock, and livelihoods due to the floods.
Gogoi also demanded a detailed investigation into the factors behind what he described as the unprecedented flood situation in the state. He urged the authorities to examine the alleged role of coal and stone mining activities in worsening the situation and sought action against those found responsible. (ANI)
Assam CM briefs Union Finance Minister on flood response; Sitharaman assures Centre's support
