Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed settlement application forms to tea garden workers in Dibrugarh, marking a significant step toward addressing long-standing land and habitation issues faced by the tea community. The initiative aims to provide legal recognition and security to workers and their families who have lived in tea garden areas for generations.
Addressing workers at a programme held in Dibrugarh, the chief minister said the government remains committed to ensuring dignity, stability, and social justice for tea garden workers. He described the distribution of settlement application forms for tea garden workers as a move that would help integrate the community more firmly into Assam’s development framework.
The event drew large participation from tea workers, union representatives, and local officials.
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Settlement application forms for tea garden workers distributed
The distribution of settlement application forms for tea garden workers allows eligible families to formally apply for land settlement rights. Officials said the forms would help identify genuine beneficiaries and streamline the settlement process.
CM Sarma said tea garden workers have contributed immensely to Assam’s economy and culture. Therefore, ensuring secure habitation remains both a moral and administrative responsibility.
He added that the initiative reflects the government’s intent to move beyond promises and deliver tangible outcomes for the community.
Long-standing demand of tea garden workers
Land settlement has remained a long-standing demand of tea garden workers across Assam. Many families have lived on tea estate land for decades without formal ownership or legal recognition.
The chief minister acknowledged this historical injustice and said the government has taken concrete steps to resolve it. By distributing settlement application forms for tea garden workers, the administration aims to provide a structured and transparent path toward resolution.
He said secure land rights would also improve access to welfare schemes, banking, and education.
Dibrugarh’s importance in the tea sector
Dibrugarh holds a central place in Assam’s tea industry, hosting numerous estates and a large tea worker population. Officials said launching the initiative in Dibrugarh highlights the region’s importance in the broader settlement programme.
The chief minister said the government plans to replicate the distribution process in other tea-growing districts. Therefore, the Dibrugarh event serves as a model for statewide implementation.
Local officials said coordination with garden managements and worker representatives remains key.
Social security and stability for workers
CM Sarma said land settlement ensures social security and long-term stability for tea garden workers. Without legal land status, families often face uncertainty and exclusion.
The settlement application forms for tea garden workers, he said, will help families build permanent homes and plan their future with confidence. Secure habitation also improves health, education, and overall quality of life.
He added that stability strengthens community cohesion and reduces vulnerability.
Transparent and phased process
Officials said the settlement process will follow a transparent and phased approach. After submission, applications will undergo verification to ensure eligibility and prevent misuse.
The chief minister stressed that fairness and accuracy remain essential. Therefore, the government will rely on proper documentation and ground-level verification.
He assured workers that genuine applicants need not fear exclusion.
Integration with welfare schemes
The government plans to link land settlement with existing welfare schemes. CM Sarma said once settlement is granted, beneficiaries can more easily access housing, sanitation, and livelihood programmes.
The settlement application forms for tea garden workers thus serve as a gateway to broader socio-economic inclusion.
Officials said integration with welfare initiatives will multiply the benefits of settlement.
Response from tea garden workers
Tea garden workers welcomed the initiative, calling it a historic moment. Many said the distribution of forms gives hope that decades-old uncertainty may finally end.
Worker representatives said legal settlement would empower families and protect future generations. They also urged the government to ensure timely processing of applications.
The positive response reflected long-standing aspirations within the community.
Role of tea community in Assam’s identity
CM Sarma highlighted the cultural and economic contribution of the tea community to Assam. He said tea workers form an integral part of the state’s identity and progress.
Recognising their rights, he added, strengthens Assam’s social fabric. The settlement application forms for tea garden workers represent recognition of this contribution.
He said inclusive development must acknowledge historical contributions.
Administrative coordination and follow-up
District authorities said dedicated teams will assist workers in filling and submitting forms. Help desks and awareness drives will ensure that applicants understand procedures.
Officials also plan periodic reviews to track progress. The chief minister said close monitoring will prevent delays and ensure accountability.
Such coordination, he added, remains vital for success.
Political and social significance
The initiative carries both political and social significance. Analysts said addressing tea worker settlement strengthens trust between the government and a historically marginalised community.
The move may also shape broader discussions on land rights and social justice in Assam. However, observers noted that implementation will determine its lasting impact.
The settlement application forms for tea garden workers thus mark a critical starting point.
What lies ahead
Following distribution, the government will focus on verification and approval. Officials said timelines will be communicated clearly to avoid confusion.
The chief minister assured that the government will remain engaged until settlements are completed. He urged workers to participate actively and submit forms promptly.
The programme is expected to expand to other districts in phases.
Conclusion
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s distribution of settlement application forms to tea garden workers in Dibrugarh marks a major step toward resolving a long-standing issue of land insecurity. By initiating a structured settlement process, the government aims to provide dignity, stability, and legal recognition to thousands of families.
If implemented effectively, the settlement application forms for tea garden workers could transform the social and economic landscape of Assam’s tea community, reinforcing inclusive development and long-overdue justice.
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