Guwahati, Oct 6: The Government of Assam on Monday launched the ‘Shraddhanjali Scheme’, a compassionate initiative aimed at ensuring the dignified repatriation of mortal remains of Assam residents who pass away outside the state.
Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma formally unveiled the scheme at a ceremony in Guwahati, describing it as a humanitarian effort to stand by bereaved families during their most difficult times.
The Shraddhanjali scheme will provide logistical and financial assistance to transport the bodies of Assam domiciles who die in other states, particularly under distressing or special circumstances. It is designed for families facing financial or logistical hardship in bringing back their loved ones.
According to official sources, the scheme excludes financially well-off families or those capable of making their own arrangements. The Assam Police, under the Home and Political Department, will oversee implementation to ensure swift, coordinated, and respectful transportation of mortal remains.
Citizens seeking assistance can access details of the scheme on the Sewa Setu Portal or reach out via helpline numbers 91810-14888, 112, or 0361-2381511.
Cabinet clears key decisions on infrastructure, education, and pensions
In a separate development, the Assam Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Dr Sarma, approved several landmark decisions, including the construction of a ₹564.50-crore elevated corridor in Silchar, reforms in medical college admission rules, and the introduction of a Unified Pension Scheme for state employees.
Under the amended Medical Colleges and Dental Colleges of Assam (Regulation of Admission into 1st Year MBBS/BDS Courses) Rules, 2017:
Permanent residents of Assam — whose last three generations are certified as such by the District Commissioner — will now be eligible for the state quota even if they studied outside Assam.
The previous clause mandating study in Classes VII–XII within the state has been deleted.
From 2026, the Moran community of Arunachal Pradesh will be treated at par with their counterparts in Assam for MBBS/BDS admissions under the state quota.
The Cabinet also approved the introduction of a Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) as an optional component under the National Pension System (NPS), ensuring enhanced financial security for state employees and reducing dependence on market fluctuations.
Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to the next of kin of nine persons from Assam who lost their lives in Tamil Nadu.
