Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly, Ranjeet Kumar Dass, called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who holds independent charge for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and is Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. The meeting focused on discussing the changing profile of Assam and its growing significance in India's development journey.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the fast-track development taking place in Assam, noting that projects in the state have been put on track with the personal intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the significant pace of development witnessed in Assam over the last decade, contrasting it with the period when the state figured in news largely for protests and insurgency-related issues.
The Union Minister underlined the Centre's priority to promote innovation, scientific research, and technology-driven development in the North Eastern region. Discussions included the potential for expanding science and technology infrastructure in Assam, encouraging start-ups and incubation centers, and promoting scientific temper among youth through programs of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Dr. Singh also apprised the Speaker about various schemes under the Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy that could be leveraged for development applications in remote and hilly terrains. These include the use of geospatial technology for planning, disaster management, and agricultural productivity. The interaction reflected the transformation taking place in Assam, with the state moving toward a phase marked by peace, development, and greater integration with India's growth journey.