Assam Health & Family Welfare and Irrigation Minister Ashok Singhal on Monday chaired two crucial virtual meetings. To assess the status of government welfare schemes and flood relief operations in Goalpara and Biswanath districts. The review came in light of the recent monsoon-related challenges. And growing concerns about timely implementation of flagship programmes in the flood-prone areas.
Goalpara and Biswanath Under Focus
During the review, Ashok Singhal stressed the importance of proactive administration in tackling both flood-related emergencies and the smooth implementation of key state welfare schemes. He directed district officials to ensure that relief efforts reached all affected families without delay, particularly in low-lying areas vulnerable to inundation.
In Goalpara, heavy rainfall over the past week had raised concerns over waterlogging and damage to rural infrastructure. Singhal appreciated the coordinated efforts of the local administration, but also instructed officials to expedite the distribution of relief materials, repair damaged embankments, and assess crop losses.
In Biswanath, officials presented updates on disaster preparedness and mitigation measures, including the functioning of temporary relief shelters and deployment of medical teams. The minister emphasized that the Health Department must remain alert. To prevent any post-flood disease outbreaks, especially waterborne illnesses.
Monitoring Welfare Schemes for Better Impact
Ashok Singhal also evaluated the implementation status of several flagship schemes including Orunodoi, Ayushman Bharat, Jal Jeevan Mission, and the PM Awas Yojana. He expressed concern over delays in certain beneficiary verifications and called for faster data validation through coordination between departments.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving rural healthcare, And, providing piped drinking water to every household, and enhancing financial inclusion through direct benefit transfers. The minister urged district collectors to personally oversee bottlenecks that hinder timely scheme execution.
“The welfare of citizens must not be disrupted due to administrative delays,” Singhal said. “Flood relief and essential schemes are equally critical for rebuilding trust and ensuring sustainable development.”
Call for Transparent and Efficient Governance
The minister also encouraged the use of digital dashboards and e-governance tools to track real-time progress on relief efforts and scheme rollouts. He insisted on weekly monitoring reports from block and district-level officers.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Singhal said the government would adopt a zero-tolerance policy against any negligence in disaster response or welfare programme delivery.
Public Representatives Join Virtual Meet
Several MLAs, Panchayat members, and zilla parishad officials participated in the virtual review meetings and raised district-specific concerns. In Goalpara, local representatives highlighted the need for additional flood protection infrastructure, while those from Biswanath sought increased funding for rural roads damaged by recent rains.
The minister assured them that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s government remains committed to empowering local bodies and responding to public grievances with urgency.
Flood Relief Operations Across Assam
As part of ongoing efforts, over 66 flood relief camps have been set up across various districts in Assam. More than 10,000 people have been sheltered, and supply chains for essential commodities are being maintained despite road disruptions.
A Strong Call to Action
Ashok Singhal’s message is clear: efficiency, compassion, and coordination must guide governance. Especially during flood crises. The minister’s direct engagement with districts shows the Assam government’s intent to ensure no citizen is left behind.
Residents and volunteers are encouraged to stay updated via official Assam government portals. And cooperate with local administration to speed up relief and rehabilitation work.