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Introduction to the Swagata Satirtha Portal

Guwahati, June 7: In a significant advancement for digital governance in Assam, the Swagata Satirtha portal, designed to facilitate mutual transfers for Grade III and IV government employees, issued its inaugural transfer orders on Saturday.

Transfer Orders Issued

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed over 4,000 transfer orders benefiting 9,004 state employees in Guwahati, calling it a "milestone moment" in the state's digital governance efforts.

During the event, ten employees from various departments received their transfer orders directly, showcasing the portal's operational capabilities.

Focus on Employee Welfare

In his speech, the Chief Minister emphasized the initiative's broader goals of enhancing mental well-being and job satisfaction among employees.

He noted that Assam is taking innovative steps in employee welfare, contrasting it with other states that adhere to outdated practices.

“When I visit other states or countries, I observe that many governments still follow traditional methods, providing only basic benefits. Few are looking towards the future. For instance, the difference in Dearness Allowance between West Bengal and Assam is nearly 30%. Despite West Bengal ranking higher in GDP, Assam has introduced effective schemes,” he remarked.

Transparency in Transfers

Sarma highlighted how the portal enhances transparency in the inter-departmental transfer process.

“Previously, employees had to make multiple trips to the Secretariat for transfer approvals, often incurring expenses of Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000. Corruption was prevalent. Now, the entire transfer process is conducted online through the Swagata Satirtha portal, eliminating the need for bribes,” he stated.

He mentioned that the portal would reopen for the next phase of ADRE recruitment, allowing employees three chances to apply.

Engagement and Participation

Since its registration opened on February 28, the Swagata Satirtha portal has attracted significant participation, with over 31,000 government employees engaging. Out of these, 21,000 successfully uploaded their profiles, while others faced technical challenges or did not meet eligibility requirements.

The government has made efforts to include a variety of location preferences in the portal to accommodate as many requests as possible.

Additional Initiatives for Employee Welfare

Sarma also highlighted various successful state initiatives aimed at improving employee welfare and systemic reforms. He mentioned the popularity of schemes like Apun Ghar Asoni and Apun Bahon Asoni, which focus on long-term security and psychological well-being.

He noted the regularization of contractual teachers under the Sarba Shiksha Abhiyan, where many opted for regularization despite a pay cut of Rs 8,000, indicating their trust in these schemes.

Launch of the Jiban Anuprerana Scheme

Jiban Anuprerana Scheme

Additionally, the Chief Minister introduced the Jiban Anuprerana Scheme aimed at supporting unemployed research scholars and graduates. Eligible scholars will receive Rs 25,000, while differently-abled scholars will be granted Rs 40,000.

“Many scholars had to halt their research due to financial constraints. This scheme aims to alleviate that issue,” Sarma explained. The application portal will remain open until August 15, with verification completed by September 25 and funds expected to be disbursed by October 1.

Conclusion

With the simultaneous launch of the Swagata Satirtha and Jiban Anuprerana schemes, Assam is making strides in enhancing digital governance and improving public service delivery.

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