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Guwahati, Mar 8: On Sunday, Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, appealed to the electorate to back the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasizing the party's ongoing commitment to women's empowerment throughout the state.

In a social media post, Sarma highlighted that a single vote can significantly impact households and amplify women's voices within society.

"A single informed vote can transform the dialogue in every household," he stated, underscoring the necessity of public engagement in the democratic process.

Sarma elaborated on the BJP's dedication to women's empowerment, noting that the party's policies in Assam are aimed at bolstering 'Nari Shakti'.

"Women's empowerment is pivotal to Assam's development narrative. Our initiatives span financial security, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, enabling countless women to advance with confidence and autonomy. Today, we honor the resilience and strength of Assam's #NariShakti," he expressed on a micro-blogging platform, coinciding with International Women’s Day.

He assured that the government would persist in its efforts to ensure women benefit from various development and welfare programs in the future.

"Our commitment will remain steadfast in the days ahead," he remarked, encouraging voters to make thoughtful decisions in the forthcoming elections. "Choose wisely, choose BJP," he urged.

Since assuming office, the BJP-led administration in Assam has introduced numerous welfare schemes aimed at enhancing women's financial security and fostering entrepreneurship.

The flagship Orunodoi initiative offers direct cash transfers of Rs 1,250 monthly to women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, currently aiding over 19 lakh beneficiaries.

This program is structured to ensure financial assistance reaches families through women, thereby strengthening their influence in household decision-making and improving access to essential resources.

Additionally, the government has initiated the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA) to motivate rural women to pursue entrepreneurship by providing seed funding and institutional backing, aiming to support up to 12 lakh women.

Another program, the Lakhpati Baideo scheme, is designed to empower women linked with Self Help Groups (SHGs) by offering phased financial support—Rs 10,000 in the first year, Rs 25,000 in the second year, and Rs 50,000 in the third year—to help them establish sustainable micro-enterprises and boost their income.

Political analysts observe that women voters are becoming an increasingly significant electoral force in Assam, prompting major political parties to prioritize policies and campaign messages centered on women's welfare and empowerment.

The BJP leadership has consistently emphasized the crucial role of women in fostering social and economic advancement, with party officials frequently showcasing government initiatives as part of their electoral outreach.