Assam’s Tinsukia district has earned the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration, bringing a wave of pride to the state. The recognition came under the category of “Holistic Development of Districts,” highlighting the region’s efforts in transforming governance, public service delivery, and infrastructure. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the district administration, stating that Tinsukia has set an example for other districts in Assam.
Officials in Tinsukia received the award in New Delhi during the Civil Services Day event, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally handed over the honor. The central government instituted the award to recognize districts and officers who bring visible change in people’s lives through effective governance. The Tinsukia team showcased initiatives that improved education, healthcare, connectivity, sanitation, and welfare schemes at the grassroots level.
Deputy Commissioner Swapnil Paul led the district’s ambitious development programs with a team that focused on building inclusive systems. He stressed the importance of collaboration among government departments, public representatives, and local communities. Under his leadership, Tinsukia pushed forward integrated rural development and citizen-centric digital initiatives. The administration adopted new technologies to streamline welfare schemes, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Tinsukia achieved significant progress in healthcare infrastructure over the last year. The administration increased access to maternal health services and immunization programs in remote and tea garden areas. Officials expanded ambulance services and strengthened the district’s capacity to respond to emergencies. They launched door-to-door campaigns to ensure timely health checkups for pregnant women and children. These measures reduced infant mortality and maternal complications in the region.
The education department played a major role in the district’s award-winning work. Officers collaborated with schools to reduce dropout rates and boost attendance. Teachers received training in innovative pedagogy while digital classrooms expanded in rural areas. Tinsukia also improved sanitation and drinking water facilities in government schools, encouraging students to stay enrolled and engaged. The administration tied these efforts with the larger mission of improving the Human Development Index in the region.
Farmers in Tinsukia benefited from agriculture extension programs launched during the past year. The district introduced modern farming techniques and created market linkages to ensure better income for cultivators. Officials organized regular training sessions on sustainable agriculture and provided financial assistance to farmer groups. The push toward self-reliance in rural livelihoods played a vital role in the district’s inclusive growth.
The social welfare department implemented targeted schemes to support elderly citizens, differently-abled individuals, and underprivileged families. The district administration ensured timely disbursal of pensions and benefits through digital payment systems. Officers coordinated with local self-help groups to improve women’s participation in development activities. Tinsukia’s consistent focus on gender inclusion added to its credibility in the national award process.
The transport and public works departments invested in road connectivity and rural infrastructure, enhancing access to services. The district repaired damaged roads, built culverts, and improved rural electrification. These steps helped link interior villages with district headquarters, making it easier for citizens to reach government offices, health centres, and schools.
Tinsukia also prioritized disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability. The administration conducted regular mock drills in flood-prone areas and developed early warning systems. The district planted thousands of saplings as part of its commitment to green growth and climate resilience. These efforts not only enhanced ecological balance but also mobilized local youth in conservation initiatives.
Chief Minister Sarma said the award would motivate other districts to follow Tinsukia’s lead. He urged officers across the state to replicate the successful models implemented in the district. The chief minister emphasized the need for results-oriented administration and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to inclusive and equitable development.
Tinsukia’s achievement stands as a testament to what is possible when leadership, community, and innovation come together with a shared goal. As Assam celebrates the district’s success, the focus remains on expanding such excellence across the state.
Tinsukia’s journey toward excellence has not been without challenges. The district has faced longstanding issues related to insurgency, ethnic tensions, and migration. However, the administration managed to navigate these difficulties through continuous dialogue with local communities and a people-first approach. Officers organized peace-building workshops and grievance redressal camps in sensitive zones, ensuring that citizens felt heard and supported. This inclusive approach built trust and made governance more responsive.
Digital governance played a transformative role in Tinsukia’s success story. The administration adopted mobile-based applications and online portals for monitoring the status of development projects. Citizens used these platforms to lodge complaints, track their applications, and give feedback. Officers responded swiftly, cutting down delays and bringing transparency to the system. These tools empowered residents to participate directly in shaping the governance process.
Cultural preservation also formed an important part of the district’s holistic growth. Tinsukia hosted local festivals and encouraged indigenous crafts and traditions. The administration worked with artists and cultural groups to revive folk art, dance, and music, turning them into sources of both identity and income. These initiatives brought together diverse communities and helped create a sense of pride in the district’s heritage.
The tourism sector, though modest, received a boost due to Tinsukia’s focused development. The district improved road connectivity to eco-tourism spots like Dibru-Saikhowa National Park and set up visitor-friendly infrastructure. The administration collaborated with local entrepreneurs to promote homestays and eco-lodges, giving a platform to sustainable rural tourism. This not only created jobs but also introduced the region’s unique biodiversity to a wider audience.
As Tinsukia moves ahead with national recognition, the district administration has already outlined new priorities. These include improving urban sanitation, enhancing vocational training programs for youth, and developing digital libraries in government schools. Officials remain committed to deepening citizen engagement and upholding the high standards that led to the Prime Minister’s award.