Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma launches MMUA cheques distribution in Borkhetri Assembly Constituency

Launch of MMUA Cheques in Borkhetri

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma kicked off a significant initiative on Saturday in the Borkhetri Assembly Constituency of Nalbari district, marking another milestone in the state's push for women-led development.

The event focused on the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA), a flagship program designed to economically empower women through entrepreneurship. Under this scheme, cheques worth Rs 10,000 each were handed out to 30,806 women, primarily from Self-Help Groups (SHGs). This distribution alone amounted to Rs 30,80,60,000, injecting substantial funds directly into the hands of rural women eager to start or expand their small businesses.

The ceremony drew large crowds, reflecting the enthusiasm among beneficiaries who see this as a real opportunity to achieve financial independence. Sarma personally oversaw the process, symbolizing the government's commitment to grassroots-level empowerment.

Scheme Details and Broader Impact

The MMUA scheme has already touched the lives of 22,28,228 women across 91 Assembly Constituencies in Assam, underscoring its statewide reach and ambition.

It provides seed funding in phases: the initial Rs 10,000 is just the starting point, with plans for Rs 25,000 in the second installment after six months, provided the funds are used effectively, and Rs 50,000 in the third year. This structured approach encourages proper utilization and sustainable growth of enterprises, from home-based ventures to community-driven projects like handicrafts, poultry farming, and food processing.

Chief Minister Sarma emphasized turning these women into 'Lakhpati Baideu' – prosperous women capable of earning lakhs annually. The initiative aligns with Assam's vision of harnessing 'Nari Shakti' or women's power for economic progress, especially in rural areas where opportunities have been limited. So far, similar distributions have occurred in constituencies like Gohpur, Dhemaji, and others, benefiting tens of thousands more.

Additional Welfare Measures and Vision for the Future

During the event, Sarma highlighted complementary schemes amplifying the impact of MMUA. In Borkhetri alone, 27,663 women are receiving benefits under the Orunodoi program, with 2,000 more set to join soon.

Although the first instalment of Rs. 10,000 has been provided today, this marks only the beginning of their journey towards becoming financially prosperous. The government will conduct a door-to-door evaluation after six months. If the funds are properly utilised, beneficiaries will receive Rs. 25,000 in the next phase, followed by Rs. 50,000 in the third year.

He announced that on February 20, around 40 lakh women statewide would get Rs 1,000 each under Orunodoi. Free essentials like 1 kg each of pulses, sugar, and salt, plus 1 litre of edible oil, are also on the way, easing household burdens and allowing focus on business growth. Sarma urged families to limit children to three, arguing it would help prioritize education and economic pursuits.

These layered initiatives paint a picture of holistic support, blending financial aid with nutritional security. As Assam gears up for future challenges, such programs are fostering self-reliance, reducing dependency, and building a resilient economy driven by women. The Borkhetri launch reinforces the government's proactive stance on inclusive growth.

In summary, the MMUA cheque distribution in Borkhetri exemplifies Assam's targeted efforts to empower women economically, with phased funding, evaluations, and allied welfare schemes promising long-term prosperity for lakhs of families.