Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has appealed to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to increase the funding limits available to northeastern states under Externally Aided Projects (EAPs). He argued that the region has consistently demonstrated transparent governance and efficient project implementation. According to Sarma, greater access to international development assistance would help northeastern states undertake larger infrastructure and public welfare projects.
He highlighted that Assam alone is currently implementing EAP-backed projects worth ₹53,000 crore. Furthermore, he emphasized that higher funding ceilings would accelerate economic growth and improve public services across the Northeast.
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Key Facts
- Issue: Request to increase Externally Aided Project (EAP) funding limits
- Raised By: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
- Addressed To: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
- Region Concerned: Northeast India
- Current EAP Projects in Assam: ₹53,000 crore
- Purpose: Boost infrastructure development and public services
- Reason Cited: Strong record of transparent governance and project execution
Assam CM Seeks Higher Funding Support
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged the Central Government to expand funding limits under Externally Aided Projects for northeastern states. He made the appeal during discussions with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
According to Sarma, northeastern states have built a strong reputation for implementing projects efficiently and transparently. Therefore, he believes the region deserves greater access to international development funding.
Assam Highlights Strong Project Performance
The Chief Minister pointed out that Assam is currently executing projects worth ₹53,000 crore through Externally Aided Projects. These initiatives cover key sectors such as infrastructure, connectivity, and public services.
Moreover, he stated that the successful implementation of these projects demonstrates the state’s administrative capability and financial discipline. As a result, increasing funding limits could help accelerate development across the region.
Appeal for Faster Regional Growth
Sarma emphasized that higher EAP funding ceilings would allow northeastern states to launch more ambitious projects. In addition, enhanced financial support could strengthen roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, education infrastructure, and other essential services.
He also noted that international development assistance plays a crucial role in supporting long-term economic growth. Consequently, expanded access to such funds could create new opportunities for investment and employment in the Northeast.
CM Shares Appeal on Social Media
Sharing details of his request on social media, Sarma said he made a “passionate appeal” on behalf of Assam and other northeastern states. He highlighted the region’s “exceptional track record and honest implementation of schemes and projects.”
Furthermore, he stressed that northeastern governments have consistently delivered results while maintaining transparency and accountability. Therefore, he urged the Centre to consider raising the funding cap under Externally Aided Projects.
Question and Answer Section
What did Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma request?
He requested Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to increase funding limits for northeastern states under Externally Aided Projects (EAPs).
Why does Assam want higher EAP funding?
The state believes additional funding will help accelerate infrastructure development, improve public services, and support economic growth.
What is the current value of EAP projects in Assam?
Assam is currently implementing projects worth approximately ₹53,000 crore through EAPs.
Who would benefit from the proposed increase?
All northeastern states could benefit from higher funding limits and expanded access to international development assistance.
What reason did Sarma give for the request?
He cited the Northeast’s strong record of transparent governance, honest implementation, and efficient project execution.
Location Context
Northeast India serves as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia and plays a vital role in India’s Act East Policy. Therefore, increased investment in infrastructure and public services can significantly strengthen regional connectivity, economic growth, and cross-border trade opportunities.
Conclusion
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s appeal for higher Externally Aided Project funding highlights the Northeast’s growing development ambitions. With Assam already implementing projects worth ₹53,000 crore, the state argues that expanded funding access would help the region undertake larger initiatives and sustain its development momentum.