Special Development Packages (SDPs) for Assam and Tripura

Why in News?

Recently, The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister has approved 4 new components under the existing Central Sector Scheme of Special Development Packages (SDPs) for Assam and Tripura.

• Special Development Packages (SDPs) – It focused on regional or community development, involving financial aid and projects for infrastructure, job creation, and social services.
• Focus – Towards the North Eastern States of Assam and Tripura.
• The initiative follows the Memoranda of Settlement (MoS) signed with various ethnic groups between 2022 and 2024.

Memoranda of Settlement is an agreement among government authorities and ethnic groups, to promote peace, inclusive development, and rehabilitation through infrastructure and socio-economic projects.

• Previous MoS-based packages – These includes (e.g., for Bodo and Karbi groups) have shown positive outcomes in peace-building and development.
• Approved new components –State Governments of Assam and Tripura with respective ethnic groups of the concerned state as follows
  • Adivasi Infrastructure – Rs.500 crores for development of infrastructure in Adivasi inhabited villages/areas of Assam.
  • Dimasa community infrastructure – Rs. 500 crores for development of infrastructure in the North Cacher Hills Autonomous (NCHAC) area of Dimasa National Liberation Army.
  • Development of ULFA- affected areas – Rs. 3000 crores for development of infrastructure in the State of Assam.
  • Development of Tripura– Rs.250 crores for development of tribals of Tripura.
• Benefits – Promote equity by Improving the socio-economic condition of vulnerable & marginalized groups.
  • Provide health services.
  • Promote education and skilling and income through livelihood activities for youth and women.
  • Increase inflow of tourists, thereby creating additional livelihood opportunities.
• Impacts
  • Infrastructure & livelihood projects will create employment.
  • The scheme expected to bring stability and mainstream affected communities.

Reference

PIB| Special Development Packages (SDPs) for Assam and Tripura