Assam approves 24X7 operations for shops in key cities, but Liquor hours are restricted

The Assam government has announced a major policy change allowing all shops and business establishments, except liquor outlets, to operate 24 hours a day in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar.

As reported by PTI, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday following a cabinet meeting that this new policy aims to boost the state's economy by providing businesses with more flexibility and opportunities to cater to customers around the clock.

The move is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, particularly in these key urban areas.

“In other towns, all shops will be allowed to remain open till 2 am, while the limit will be 11 pm in rural areas. However, the workers will work for a maximum of nine hours. So, there has to be three shifts if anyone wants to operate 24 hours,” Sarma added.

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This decision to allow shops to operate 24 hours will help small businesses and eventually lead to the generation of more jobs due to an increased number of shifts, Sarma stressed.

The CM also said, "The Moran community people, who live in Arunachal Pradesh, will get permanent residency certificates from the Assam government if they apply. Presently, the Arunachal government is not providing it to them."

Recently, a delegation of the Moran community submitted a memorandum highlighting their problems due to the absence of a PRC, he added.

Sarma said the cabinet has approved ₹262 crore for the construction of roads in tea garden areas.

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"The state government will observe the birth centenary of ex-chief minister Golap Borbora who was the first non-Congress chief minister of Assam," Sarma stated.

The cabinet also abolished the age limit for National Health Mission employees for applying for permanent jobs in the Health Department, he added.

The government also decided to create the post of headmaster in elementary schools with 50 or more students, Sarma said.

(With inputs from PTI)