The Assam Panchayat and Rural Development (P&RD) Department on Friday reaffirmed its commitment to the families of its workforce.
At a programme held at the Commissionerate of P&RD at Panjabari, Guwahati, Minister Atul Bora ceremonially handed over cheques of Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin of 34 deceased contractual employees of the Department.
The 34 families will receive a total of Rs 1.70 crore under the Government’s ex-gratia programme, which provides one-time financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of contractual employees who pass away while in service.
Contractual employees have long been integral to the delivery of the State’s rural development schemes, serving the Department’s initiatives with dedication and diligence.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Atul Bora said that while no financial assistance could fill the void left by the loss of a loved one, the deceased employees were a valued part of the P&RD family, and their loss is deeply felt by their families and the Department alike.
He expressed hope that the support would provide meaningful financial relief and help the families navigate the road ahead.
The Minister also encouraged family members to apply for contractual posts advertised by the Department from time to time. He credited the initiative to the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and said that it reflects the Assam Government’s commitment to standing by families in their moments of need.
Since January 1, 2011, 150 families of deceased contractual employees have received ex-gratia assistance of Rs 5 lakh each. Taken together, these measures reflect a people-first approach to governance, strengthening financial security and social protection for families and reinforcing trust between the Government and those who serve the State.
The programme was attended by Pushpanjali Das, Secretary, P&RD Department; Oinam Sarankumar Singh, Commissioner; senior officials of the Department and family members of the deceased employees
