The Union Cabinet has signed a Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) with the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA 2023), aimed at promoting peace, inclusive development, and rehabilitation through infrastructure and socio-economic projects. As part of the accord, Rs 3,000 crore has been earmarked for the development of infrastructure across Assam. In addition, Rs 500 crore has been allocated for infrastructure development in Adivasi-inhabited villages and areas of the state, as per the MoS signed between the Government of India, the Government of Assam, and the Adivasi groups.
A further Rs 500 crore has been earmarked for infrastructure development in the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) area, covering villages and areas inhabited by the Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA) and Dimasa People’s Supreme Council (DPSC) groups, as per the MoS signed between the Government of India, the Government of Assam, and the DNLA/DPSC groups of Assam. The move comes as the Centre also approved four new components under the existing Central Sector Scheme of Special Development Packages (SDPs) for Assam as well as Tripura.
A total outlay of Rs 4,250 crore has been committed by the Centre. Following the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the decision would boost development in the region and create new opportunities for youngsters and women. The Centre, along with Assam and Tripura, also signed MoS with respective ethnic groups — Adivasi groups (2022), DNLA/DPSC (2023), ULFA (2023), and NLFT/ATTF (2024).
