The government implemented the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Asoni as part of its women empowerment agenda. Critics, however, allege that cash assistance before elections has become a political strategy. Similar measures surfaced during Bihar’s Assembly elections, where women received financial aid under a state employment scheme.

The Assam government launched the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan in January 2024. The scheme aims to make two crore women “Lakhpati Didis.” It focuses on women associated with self-help groups in rural areas. The objective is to develop them as rural micro-entrepreneurs with an annual income target of ₹1 lakh.

Eligible beneficiaries receive ₹10,000 in the first year. Over the next two years, the government provides ₹12,500 support, along with ₹12,500 as bank credit. The application portal closed on December 31, 2025.

Addressing the gathering, Sarma said over 16 lakh women have already benefited. He added another 16 lakh will receive assistance soon. The Chief Minister claimed the scheme could add ₹32,000 crore to Assam’s economy.

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Sarma responded to a question about Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s successful ₹10,000 scheme. He said his government already gives ₹10,000 to women in self-help groups. He argued that if elections were won only through cash transfers, Muslim voters would have supported his party and Tejashwi Yadav would have also won easily.

He explained that the recent victory in Bihar came from Nitish Kumar’s governance image and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He said the ₹10,000 benefit plays a role, but not a decisive one.

Sarma added that many beneficiaries supported his party in Assam, yet several others voted for them despite receiving nothing. He said this proves that elections are shaped by ideology, trust, and governance, not just money.

His comments have triggered reactions across political circles as the debate over welfare politics intensifies.

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