Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma talks about his role in the reform efforts in the state government of Assam over the previous decade. He talks about the financial reforms put in place to improve recruitment standards and salary payments, such as initiating a Value Added Tax program as a way of balancing the books to allow for further reform efforts, and overcoming the challenges associated with the these new reforms. He talks about dealing with different parts of society putting pressure on the government once the financial reforms were put in place and money became available to spend, and balancing competing interests. He also goes into detail about how the government of Assam dealt with the insurgency problem affecting the state through cease-fire negotiations, concessions and the establishment of tribal councils. He also offers his opinions on how decentralization and democracy can empower people and contribute to economic development. Finally, he discusses the need to stay up to date on all the relevant issues affecting the local community, to know the problems and stay in touch with the people to help build trust and advance the development process.

 

Case Study:  Promoting Peace Through Development: Assam State, India, 2001-2009