Memorandum of Settlement between Government of India, Government of Assam and United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA)

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Country/entity: India
Assam
Region: Asia and Pacific
Agreement name: Memorandum of Settlement between Government of India, Government of Assam and United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA)
Date: 29 Dec 2023
Agreement status: Multiparty signed/agreed
Interim arrangement: Yes
Agreement/conflict level: Intrastate/intrastate conflict
India-Adivasi Conflicts (1955 - ) (Northeast India)
Several of seven sister states in Northeast India have had ongoing conflicts with the central Indian government, as well as among themselves following India's independence from the British Empire in 1947. Northeast India, in particular, lags behind the rest of India in infrastructure development. Tensions also exist between the various ethnic groups and Indian nationals migrated from elsewhere.

Bodoland:
The Bodo are a predominantly Christian group of about four million people living in the mountainous region of eastern Assam, India. Since 1986, the guerrilla organization – the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) – fought for independence of Bodoland. An initial truce was signed in 1989 and negotiations began with the Assam government. However, the NDFB resumed the conflict and new attempts to reach a peace settlement have not been successful. In 2005, a faction of the NDFB entered negotiations and signed a ceasefire agreement after suffering heavy losses. This splintered the NDFB and more radical factions that continue to fight.

Darjeeling:
Gorkhas in the state of West Bengal waged a guerrilla war against the central government from 1986-1988. Anti-foreign riots started in 1979 after a steady infiltration of Hindus and Muslims from other parts of Bengal. Tensions continued until the Accord of Darjeeling peace agreement was concluded in 1988. This accord provided for an autonomous Gorkha district around Darjeeling, which would remain part of West Bengal. It was implemented in The Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (Amendment) Act of 1994. After 2007, a second wave of enthusiasm for Gorkhaland was revived by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, however, this time by non-violent means. Nonetheless, the introduction of Bengali into schools, raised tensions in a Nepali-speaking region and as of 2017 conflict appears to be increasing.

Hmar:
Tension in Mizoram were primarily due to political domination by the Assamese over the Mizo. The Mizo National Front was formed in 1961 in the aftermath of a devastating famine in the Mizo Hills in objection to Indian Government response, or lack of. With popular support the MNF staged an uprising in 1966, but was unable to take control. It was only in 1986 that a peace accord was signed granting Mizoram statehood and the MNF became a political party. The same year the Hmar People's Convention was formed as a political party advocating for the rights of the Hmar which were ignored by the 1986 peace accord. The movement aimed to create an autonomous state in the north of Mizoram. A 1994 agreement between the HPC and Indian government resulted in the formation of the Sinlung Hills Development Council. However, a splinter group - the Hmar People's Convention-Democracy - was formed in 1995 demanding a separate administration.

Manipur:
The Manipur insurgency is linked to national, ethnic and political identity issues that occupy many of the conflicts in India's northeast that emerged following the independence of India in 1947. Among the largest groups are the United National Liberation Front, the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, the People's Liberation Army of Manipur, and the Kanleipak Communist Party. The conflict continues as of 2017.

Nagaland:
The exception is Nagaland, wherein tensions predate 1947 and the Nagas announced their intention to declare independence from Britain. Indian authorities moved troops into the region in 195. Nagaland was eventually declared a state in 1963 and an agreement, the Shillong Accord, was signed between the Naga National Council and Indian Government in 1975. In 1980 the Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) was formed due to dissatisfaction with the Shillong Accord with the aim of Naga independence. It split into two factions in 1988. Over 80 rounds of peace talks from 1999 onwards led to little until the signing of the Naga Peace Accord in 2015.

Tripura:
Tensions emerged in Tripura between Bengali-speaking settlers and local ethnic groups during the 1970s. In 1989 the National Liberation Front of Tripura was founded followed by the establishment of the All Tripura Tiger Force the next year. Whilst the Christian NLFT seeks independence from India, the Hindu ATTF's sole goal is the expulsion of all Bengali-speakers from the state.
Stage: Framework/substantive - comprehensive
Conflict nature: Government/territory
Peace process: India-Assam
Parties: ULFA Representatives:

Rajib Rajkonwar (Chairman)
Pradip Gogoi (Vice-Chairman)
Golap Baruah (General Secretary)
Chitra Hazarika (Finance Secretary)
Pranati Deka Hazarika (Cultural Secretary)
Shashadhar Choudhury (Foreign Secretary)
Hitesh Kalita (Deputy Commander-in-Chief)
Deepak Daimary (Publicity Secretary)

Government Representatives:

Dr. Himanta Biswa Sharma (Chief Minister, Assam)
Chief Secretary, Government of Assam
Additional Secretary/NE, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
Third parties: Hon'ble Union Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah (witnessed the signing)
Description: This comprehensive peace accord marks the end of ULFA's 44-year armed struggle for Assam's independence. ULFA agrees to abandon violence, surrender arms, and join the democratic process in exchange for political concessions, development packages worth Rs. 5000 crores, rehabilitation of cadres, and measures to protect indigenous Assamese communities from illegal immigration. The agreement addresses political demands, land rights, cultural preservation, and includes extensive infrastructure development projects.

Agreement document: IN_231229_Memorandum of Settlement between Government of India, Government of Assam and United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) (opens in new tab) | Download PDF
Source of document: https://mahabahu.com/full-text-ulfas-peace-accord-for-assam/

Groups

Children/youth: Groups→Children/youth→Substantive
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
9.8 The Govt. of Assam may consider reviewing from time to time the existing policy for recruitment in Police department with respect to reservation for former militants and recruitment of youth in militancy-affected districts.
...
Annexure-III
...
30. Skill Development Centres will be set up to function in close coordination with industry and impart specialised training to the youth for enhancing their capabilities in areas that are in demand overseas such as hospitality, healthcare, construction, manufacturing etc.
Disabled persons: No specific mention.
Elderly/age: No specific mention.
Migrant workers: No specific mention.
Racial/ethnic/national group: Groups→Racial/ethnic/national group→Substantive
4. Reservation in Education/Employment
4.1 The Govt. of Assam agrees to consider initiating measures to divide OBCs/MOBCs into separate categories and specify quantum of reservation for each category for the purpose of reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.
The State Govt. has already constituted the Assam Backward Classes Commission in April 2022 under the Assam Backward Classes Commission Act, 1993 towards this objective.
4.2 In order to advance the interests of the indigenous communities, the Govt. of Assam may review, from time to time, its policy for reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.
Religious groups: No specific mention.
Indigenous people: Groups→Indigenous people→Rhetorical
Preamble
1.1 Assam is home to numerous indigenous communities having their distinct identities, socio-cultural traditions, languages, etc.
These communities have immensely contributed to the rich heritage of Assam as well as diversity of the country.
However, the problem of illegal influx posed serious challenges to the indigenous Assamese communities and adversely impacted the demographic composition, socio-cultural milieu, land and forest resources, and overall economic and political fabric of the State.
...
The Government of India and the Government of Assam have been making concerted endeavour to protect the political, social and economic interests of the indigenous communities, preserve their cultural heritage, restore peace and ensure rapid economic development of the State.
...
While the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam remain committed to protect the interests of the indigenous communities, ULFA agreed to shun the path of violence, join the peaceful democratic process as established by the law of the land, and uphold the integrity of the country.
Groups→Indigenous people→Substantive
3. ST Status for Communities
The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been introduced by the Govt. of India in the Rajya Sabha to include certain communities in the list of the STs in relation to the State of Assam.
The Govt. of Assam has constituted a Committee of Group of Ministers (CGoM) to examine and suggest on the different aspects of reservation of six communities in the State.
The Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam will make efforts to expedite the process after signing of the MoS.
4. Reservation in Education/Employment
4.1 The Govt. of Assam agrees to consider initiating measures to divide OBCs/MOBCs into separate categories and specify quantum of reservation for each category for the purpose of reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.
The State Govt. has already constituted the Assam Backward Classes Commission in April 2022 under the Assam Backward Classes Commission Act, 1993 towards this objective.
4.2 In order to advance the interests of the indigenous communities, the Govt. of Assam may review, from time to time, its policy for reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.
...
6. Land/Forest
...
6.2 As per the recommendation of the Govt. of India towards establishment, administration and management of a system of Title registration of immovable properties, the Govt. of Assam will consider proposing suitable legislation to provide Conclusive Land Titles to members of indigenous communities who are genuine land holders.
...
However, rights of indigenous people protected under the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 shall be respected in the process of eviction/removal.
Other groups: No specific mention.
Refugees/displaced persons: No specific mention.
Social class: Groups→Social class→Substantive
4. Reservation in Education/Employment
4.1 The Govt. of Assam agrees to consider initiating measures to divide OBCs/MOBCs into separate categories and specify quantum of reservation for each category for the purpose of reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.
The State Govt. has already constituted the Assam Backward Classes Commission in April 2022 under the Assam Backward Classes Commission Act, 1993 towards this objective.
4.2 In order to advance the interests of the indigenous communities, the Govt. of Assam may review, from time to time, its policy for reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.
...
7. Tea Gardens
...
The Committee will also study various issues relating to welfare of the tea garden workers and recommend appropriate measures to address their grievances, in consultation with all stakeholders including the plantation owners.
7.2 Persons belonging to Tea and Ex-Tea garden community will be given preference in allotment of land acquired from Tea Estate under the Assam Fixation of Ceiling on Land Holdings Act, 1956, as amended from time to time.

Gender

Women, girls and gender: 9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
The State Govt. will also endeavour to provide a permanent source of livelihood to the wives (8) of missing cadres based on their eligibility.
...
Annexure-I
...
67. Project for empowering women from forest dependant communities in Soil to Silk value chain (Ava Creation – SPV)
Men and boys: No specific mention.
LGBTI: No specific mention.
Family: 9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
The State Govt. will also endeavour to provide a permanent source of livelihood to the wives (8) of missing cadres based on their eligibility.

State definition

Nature of state (general): No specific mention.
State configuration: No specific mention.
Self determination: No specific mention.
Referendum: No specific mention.
State symbols: No specific mention.
Independence/secession: No specific mention.
Accession/unification: No specific mention.
Border delimitation: No specific mention.
Cross-border provision: No specific mention.

Governance

Political institutions (new or reformed): No specific mention.
Elections: 2. Political Demands
...
2.2 The Govt. of India will consider recommending to the Election Commission of India to follow, as far as possible, the broad guidelines and methodology, which was adopted for the delimitation exercise held in Assam in 2023, in future delimitations as well.
Some of these parameters used in the exercise are rate of growth of population, density of population, principles of historicity of areas and communities, geographical continuity, physical features, facilities of communication and public convenience.
...
2.5 A citizen of the country who is ordinarily resident in an Assembly Constituency shall only be entitled to be registered in the voter list of that Constituency.
No person shall be registered in the voter list for more than one Constituency.
2.6 Effective measures will be taken to prevent enrolment of illegal migrants in the voter lists.
All precautions will be taken to ensure thorough scrutiny of new voters at the time of revision of electoral rolls.
The verification exercise should be carried out under the direct supervision of the District Electoral Registration Officer.
Electoral commission: 2. Political Demands
...
2.2 The Govt. of India will consider recommending to the Election Commission of India to follow, as far as possible, the broad guidelines and methodology, which was adopted for the delimitation exercise held in Assam in 2023, in future delimitations as well.
Political parties reform: No specific mention.
Civil society: 9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
The Committee may also involve concerned Departments of the State Govt. and successful entrepreneurs/NGOs in the process.
Traditional/religious leaders: No specific mention.
Public administration: No specific mention.
Constitution: Governance→Constitution→Constitutional reform/making
3. ST Status for Communities
The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been introduced by the Govt. of India in the Rajya Sabha to include certain communities in the list of the STs in relation to the State of Assam.
The Govt. of Assam has constituted a Committee of Group of Ministers (CGoM) to examine and suggest on the different aspects of reservation of six communities in the State.
The Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam will make efforts to expedite the process after signing of the MoS.

Power sharing

Political power sharing: No specific mention.
Territorial power sharing: Power sharing→Territorial power sharing→Other
2. Political Demands
2.1 The Govt. of India agrees to maintain the territorial integrity of the State of Assam. However, the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam are committed to amicably resolve boundary disputes of Assam with neighbouring States.
Economic power sharing: No specific mention.
Military power sharing: No specific mention.

Human rights and equality

Human rights/RoL general: 5. NRC/Illegal Immigration
5.1 Foreigners detected after preparation of the corrected and error-free NRC shall be dealt with as per the law of the land.
Bill of rights/similar: No specific mention.
Treaty incorporation: No specific mention.
Civil and political rights: No specific mention.
Socio-economic rights: No specific mention.

Rights related issues

Citizenship: Rights related issues→Citizenship→Citizens, specific rights
2. Political Demands
...
2.5 A citizen of the country who is ordinarily resident in an Assembly Constituency shall only be entitled to be registered in the voter list of that Constituency.
Democracy: No specific mention.
Detention procedures: No specific mention.
Media and communication: No specific mention.
Mobility/access: No specific mention.
Protection measures: No specific mention.
Other: No specific mention.

Rights institutions

NHRI: No specific mention.
Regional or international human rights institutions: No specific mention.

Justice sector reform

Criminal justice and emergency law: No specific mention.
State of emergency provisions: No specific mention.
Judiciary and courts: No specific mention.
Prisons and detention: No specific mention.
Traditional Laws: No specific mention.

Socio-economic reconstruction

Development or socio-economic reconstruction: Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Socio-economic development
11. Special Development Package
11.1 A Special Development Package of Rs. 5000 Crores will be provided over a period of five years with matching contribution by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam for various developmental initiatives in the State.
11.2 Illustrative list of projects which may be considered for implementation under the Special Development Package subject to feasibility and availability of funds is appended at Annexure — III.
Specific projects to be implemented will be mutually decided by the parties to the MoS.
...
Annexure-I
...
65. Eri and Muga Silk Development Project for creation of livelihood of forest communities
66. Integrated project for Eri Silk Industry
67. Project for empowering women from forest dependant communities in Soil to Silk value chain (Ava Creation – SPV)
...
68. Research Centre for Nano-technology
Annexure-II
...
14. Systemic transformation of Governance & Service Delivery in Assam to make it more pro-people and accountable by targeted investments
...
18. Mission Mode and focused efforts and investments to support School education in Assam
...
19. Bell metal, Brass metal and charcoal depot based industries to be established in Sarthebari (Bajali District).
State Govt. to look into the problems of easy availability of raw material to ensure survival of Bell based Assamese handicraft cottage industry.
Annexure-III
...
1. IIM at Guwahati subject to laid down govt. norms
2. School of Planning and Architecture subject to laid down govt. norms
3. Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) subject to laid down govt. norms
4. A University in the name of Su-Ka-Pha in Charaideo district subject to laid down govt. norms
5. Education Park at Guwahati to impart interacting, demonstrative and physical education to youth on physical science, life and social sciences
6. Training School for imparting hands on training in Oil and Gas operations
...
9. Flood and erosion problem will be treated as a national priority
...
15. Development of Kaziranga as a high-end national level tourist attraction centre with various entertainment amenities, Botanical and Floral Garden, Orchid Centre, Eco Forest Museum and opportunities to showcase local culture, craft, cottage industry, etc.
...
17. Development of tourist spots at Rangghar, Talatalghar, Karengghar, Khaspur ruins, Brahmaputra waterfront at Guwahati, battlefield of Saraighat war and Bogeebil
18. Development of water sports activities at Bogeebil (Dibrugarh District)
...
19. A multi-facility sports complex with Centre of Excellence in Volleyball at Nalbari
20. Centre of Excellence for Football in Dibrugarh and Baksa districts
21. Multi-purpose sports complex at Darrang and Charaideo districts
22. Football Academy at Kaliabor (Nagaon District)
...
30. Skill Development Centres will be set up to function in close coordination with industry and impart specialised training to the youth for enhancing their capabilities in areas that are in demand overseas such as hospitality, healthcare, construction, manufacturing etc.
...
31. A Committee will be constituted to study and recommend on promotion of investment and formulation of policy in consultation with Niti Aayog to make Assam a hub for green energy
Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Infrastructure and reconstruction
6. Land/Forest
...
No agricultural land will ordinarily be allotted or settled for any other purpose except when the State Govt. is of the view that the intended purpose is in public interest such as establishment of industry for employment generation, construction of public institution/office, hospital, dispensary, etc.
...
10. Planned Development
10.1 The Govt. of India will take up a number of developmental projects in Assam in the next few years covering core infrastructure sectors such as Road Transport & Highways, Railways, Flood and Soil Erosion, Petroleum & Natural Gas, MSME, Textiles, MEITY, etc.
...
10.2 The Govt. of Assam will also take up a number of developmental projects in the State in the next few years covering various sectors such as Energy, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Roads & Bridges, Floods and Soil Erosion, Wetland Development, Education, Cottage Industry and Delivery of services to improve ease of living.
...
Annexure-I
...
1. Highway from Diphu to West Karbi Anglong via Hamren
2. 4-lane Gauripur Bypass from Dumardohan to Baladmara via Khudimari, Fulkumari, Charaldanga, Sajuarkuti, Geramari
3. Two lane road from Majuli to Jorhat on NH-715K
4. Stage strengthening of NH-127C from Samthaibari to Dadgiri
5. New Bridge over River Gai on NH-15
6. River Training Work for New 2-Lane Major Bridge between Majuli and Jorhat
7. Construction & up-gradation of NH-127C from Samthaibari to Galengphu (Indo-Bhutan Border)
8. Widening of NH-329
9. Tamenglong – Mahur Road from Jiri River to Hangrum
10. 4-Laning of Bilasipara-Tulungia and Silchar-Jiribam
11. 4-Laning of Silchar ISBT of NH-37 and NH-6
12. 4-Laning of NH-37/NH-8 near Sutarkandi (Spur Connectivity to Indo/Bangladesh Border) and proposed Nilam bazar/ Cheragi Bypass on Silchar-Churaibari
13. 4-Laning of NH-8 (proposed Nilambazar/Cheragi Bypass near Chandkhira Village and near Churaibari Village (Assam/Tripura Border) on Silchar-Churaibari
14. 4-Laning of Malidor-Ratachera-Kalain-Badarpur
15. 4-Laning of Silchar-Jiribam
16. Construction of new highway from NH-37 near Pailapool to NH-137 connecting Jaipur, Harinagar, Kumarcherra, Zinam, Hagrum (Mahur-Tamenglong Road)
...
a) 4-Lane Approach road from Numaligarh side to Brahmaputra Tunnel on South Bank
(b) 4-Laning of Brahmaputra Tunnel Connectivity across River Brahmaputra between Gohpur (on NH-15) and Numaligarh (on NH71)
(c) 4-Laning of Approach road from End of Brahmaputra River Tunnel to Gohpur side on North Bank
18. Guwahati Ring Road including Brahmaputra Bridge
...
20. World Class Station Building at Kamakhya Railway Station
21. New Railway line Salona-Khumtai
22. New Railway line Tezpur-Silghat
23. Saraighat Bridge doubling
24. Doubling of Kamakhya — New Guwahati — 3rd Line
25. Doubling of Lumding – Tinsukia Jn – Dibrugarh railway line
26. Multi-tracking of Azara- Tetelia
27. Multitracking from Khandikar- Kendukona (Rangia By-pass)
28. Chandranathpur — Agartala
29. Agthori – Dekargaon (New line)
30. New lines :
Ledo – Jairampur- Kharsang;
Gogamukh—Jorhat;
Jowai-Khlieriat—Chandranathpur;
Kokrajhar-Gelephu
...
31. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Kushiyara
32. Raising and strengthening of Dyke from Bahari to Baghbar
33. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Garuphella
34. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Longa
35. Protection of Majuli island from flood and erosion of river Brahmaputra
36. Integrated Water Resources Management of Buridehing Basin
37. Integrated flood and erosion management of Manas and Beki rivers in Baksa and Barpeta districts
38. Integrated flood and river bank erosion management works at Rohmoria
39. Protection of Flood embankment along Kollong river from Raha to Jagi
40. Construction of Dyke along right bank of river Kollong from Dhankhunda to Gobardhan hill and sluice gate at Dhepuijan, Ghoramarajaan and Kajolijan
41. Protection of Kolbari and Lality area from the erosion of river Brahmaputra (Construction of three nos of spurs and a check dam)
42. Protection of various villages from the erosion of river Aie
43. Rejuvenation, bioremediation and conservation of Silsako Beel at Guwahati
...
58. Development of New Industrial Estate at Chenga, Bahari, District Barpeta
59. Setting up of a new industrial estate at 2, Dhemajibari, Biswanath Cheriali
60. Up-gradation of the Integrated Infrastructure Development Centre IIDC, Silapathar, District Dhemaji
61. Development of New Industrial Estate at Maizgram, District Karimganj
62. Up-gradation of the Integrated Infrastructure Development Centre, Titabor, Jorhat
63. Development of New Industrial Estate at Dighalichapari, District-Sonitpur
64. Infrastructure Development Facilities & Up-gradation in the existing Complex, Manja, Karbi Anglong, Assam
...
Annexure-II
...
1. Development of 3000 MW Solar power projects in Assam
2. Increased Hydro-Power generation by expansion of KarbiLangpi Project with additional 50 MW
3. Develop Assam as a region hub by establishing 250 MW Battery Energy Storage
4. Increased power supply in the State by exploiting green sources by developing 212 MW Solar Parks in the State
5. Development of a new 25 MW Namrup Solar Power Project
6. Development of 20 MW Sonbeel Solar Power Project at Karimganj
...
8. Improved rural connectivity by construction of new and strengthening of Resilient Rural Bridges in the State
9. Improvement of communication by taking up of Assam Bridge project connecting Palashbari
10. Special focus and investment for development of Roads in Hill Areas in Assam with suitable designs for Disaster Resilience
...
11. Protection of lives and livelihoods of people of Assam in flood affected areas by taking up Integrated River Basin Management Projects
12. Long term and sustainable development of Brahmaputra riverine areas by taking up projects like Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and River Erosion Risk Management Programme
13. Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project in:
(a) Assam-Dibrugarh and Tinsukia Sub Project (Zone-A) (b) Assam-Morigaon Nagaon Tezpur Sub project (Zone-B) (c) Assam-Guwahati West P.G.P Sub project (Zone-C) (d) Assam-Barpeta Goalpara Dhubri sub project (Zone D)
...
15. Focussed Investment to develop modern Urban Infrastructure and Urban Sector in Assam to promote Ease of Living
...
Annexure-III
...
7. North Eastern Frontier Railways to be re-constituted to cover only the States of North East Region subject to laid down norms of Railway Board
8. Railway equipment manufacturing plant at Bongaigaon
...
23. An internationally accredited Organic Produce Certification Centre to be set up in Assam Agriculture University
24. A Regional Pesticide Testing laboratory to be set up at Guwahati
25. Muga Parks at Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Sivasagar and South Kamrup with special incentives to Muga producers.
Rural areas (Dhakuakhana, Dhemaji, Charaideo and Boko) to be declared as eco-sensitive zone for survival of Muga silk culture
26. Setting up of a Germplasm Bank in Horticulture College at Nalbari (Lokhopur) for development of indigenous varieties of flora and fauna and collection and preservation of indigenous/heirloom seeds
27. Solar Cold Storage in Sadia
...
33. Development of eco-tourism and state of the art water sports hub along with fresh water
...
34. Bridges at (i) Boko-Mukalmua (ii) Disangmukh-Matmora (Sivasagar district-Lakhimpur district) (iii) Lahorighat (Morigaon district) – Udalguri (Udalguri district), and (iv) Mora DeopaniAmarpur Telia Bari to be constructed.
35. Construction of road from Khatkhati to Namrup Dilighat bridge along Assam-Nagaland boundary.
36. Reopening of road communication on Goalpara – Dalu – Nalitabari axis (road along IndoBangladesh boarder which links different border trade points).
National economic plan: No specific mention.
Natural resources: 6. Land/Forest
...
6.3 The Govt. of Assam will take necessary steps to prevent shrinkage/decrease of prime agricultural land.
...
10. Planned Development
10.1 The Govt. of India will take up a number of developmental projects in Assam in the next few years covering core infrastructure sectors such as Road Transport & Highways, Railways, Flood and Soil Erosion, Petroleum & Natural Gas, MSME, Textiles, MEITY, etc.
...
10.2 The Govt. of Assam will also take up a number of developmental projects in the State in the next few years covering various sectors such as Energy, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Roads & Bridges, Floods and Soil Erosion, Wetland Development, Education, Cottage Industry and Delivery of services to improve ease of living.
...
Annexure-I
...
44. Pipeline from Duliajan to Majuli
45. Laying of pipeline from Narayanpur, Assam to Banderdewa & Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh
46. Pipeline from Guwahati, Assam to Sandrup Jonkhar, Bhutan
47. Pipelines from Silchar, Assam to Imphal, Manipur via Jiribam
48. Pipeline from Baihata, Assam to Panikhaiti, Assam and from Sonapur, Assam to Tura & Mairang, Meghalaya
49. Capacity augmentation of Bongaigaon LPG Plant
50. Laying of Guwahati-Silchar-Imphal Product Pipeline (GSIPL)
51. Bongaigaon Refinery Expansion
52. Geleki Redevelopment Project
53. Creation Of Captive Power Plant (CPP) at Geleki
54. Creation of Surface Facilities and Redevelopment of Geleki Field
55. Pipeline Network Project, Rudrasagar
56. Creation of Captive Power Plant (CPP) at Rudrasagar
57. Pilot implementation of Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR) in Rudrasagar, Lakwa, Lakhmani
...
Annexure-II
...
7. Increased oil and gas business in Assam in the midstream and downstream by expanding the capacity and diversification of NRL into 9 MMPTA
...
16. Develop and Implement time-bound program to cover all major towns of Assam with urban gas distribution to provide connections to all households in 5 years
International funds: No specific mention.
Business: 7. Tea Gardens
7.1 The Govt. of Assam will consider constituting a Committee under the Chairmanship of a Cabinet Minister to examine the issue of sick tea gardens and recommend steps as to how to revive them.
The Committee will also study various issues relating to welfare of the tea garden workers and recommend appropriate measures to address their grievances, in consultation with all stakeholders including the plantation owners.
...
7.3 Efforts will be made by the Govt. of India to re-locate the Office of Tea Board of India from Kolkata to a suitable location in Assam.
...
Annexure-III
...
10. Food processing Industrial park in Malinibari of Silchar District
11. Special Economic Zone at Daranga Mela area of Indo-Bhutan border (Baksa District)
12. Industrial area for value added production from Banana in Goalpara district
13. Industrial area for value added production from Pineapple in Karbi Anglong district
14. A bamboo-based industry in Barak Valley
...
29. An International level amusement park to be set up near Mayang and Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary area in collaboration with private sector
Taxation: No specific mention.
Banks: Socio-economic reconstruction→Banks→Personal or commercial banking
Annexure-III
...
32. Green Banks will be set up to provide financial assistance for green energy projects.

Land, property and environment

Land reform/rights: Land, property and environment→Land reform/rights→Land reform and management
6. Land/Forest
6.1 For efficient management of land resources, the Govt. of Assam will take steps to digitalise all land holdings, preferably within 3 years of signing of the MoS.
6.2 As per the recommendation of the Govt. of India towards establishment, administration and management of a system of Title registration of immovable properties, the Govt. of Assam will consider proposing suitable legislation to provide Conclusive Land Titles to members of indigenous communities who are genuine land holders.
6.3 The Govt. of Assam will take necessary steps to prevent shrinkage/decrease of prime agricultural land.
No agricultural land will ordinarily be allotted or settled for any other purpose except when the State Govt. is of the view that the intended purpose is in public interest such as establishment of industry for employment generation, construction of public institution/office, hospital, dispensary, etc.
6.4 Newly created 'Char' (river islet) areas will be treated as government land.
Necessary measures will be taken to prevent further encroachment in 'Char' areas and other government land including reserved land (PGR, VGR, Wet lands, etc.).
6.5 Encroachment in 'Char' areas as well as in other government land will be identified through satellite imagery in a time-bound manner.
Effective measures will be taken to remove/evict such encroachments and prevent re-encroachment in the cleared areas.
However, rights of indigenous people protected under the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 shall be respected in the process of eviction/removal.
6.6 The State Govt. will consider utilising 'Char' land for other purposes such as large scale plantations to increase the green cover.
6.7 Existing mechanisms at the State and District level will be strengthened to review the status of all land allotted/leased by the Govt. for various purposes in order to ascertain (i) if such land has been put to use for which it was allotted/leased, (ii) whether any of the terms and conditions has been violated by the allottee, and (iii) if any land in excess of allotment has been encroached by the allottee.
...
6.9 The Govt. of Assam will consider formulating suitable policy to take over land acquired through various anti-encroachment measures and set up a land bank thereupon to settle landless people.
...
Annexure-I
...
31. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Kushiyara
32. Raising and strengthening of Dyke from Bahari to Baghbar
33. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Garuphella
34. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Longa
35. Protection of Majuli island from flood and erosion of river Brahmaputra
...
37. Integrated flood and erosion management of Manas and Beki rivers in Baksa and Barpeta districts
38. Integrated flood and river bank erosion management works at Rohmoria
39. Protection of Flood embankment along Kollong river from Raha to Jagi
40. Construction of Dyke along right bank of river Kollong from Dhankhunda to Gobardhan hill and sluice gate at Dhepuijan, Ghoramarajaan and Kajolijan
41. Protection of Kolbari and Lality area from the erosion of river Brahmaputra (Construction of three nos of spurs and a check dam)
42. Protection of various villages from the erosion of river Aie
...
Annexure-II
...
11. Protection of lives and livelihoods of people of Assam in flood affected areas by taking up Integrated River Basin Management Projects
12. Long term and sustainable development of Brahmaputra riverine areas by taking up projects like Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and River Erosion Risk Management Programme
...
(a) Assam-Dibrugarh and Tinsukia Sub Project (Zone-A) (b) Assam-Morigaon Nagaon Tezpur Sub project (Zone-B) (c) Assam-Guwahati West P.G.P Sub project (Zone-C) (d) Assam-Barpeta Goalpara Dhubri sub project (Zone D)
Land, property and environment→Land reform/rights→Property return and restitution
6. Land/Forest
...
6.8 In order to preserve the sanctity of iconic/heritage locations, the Govt. of Assam will consider taking steps to identify all such locations and ensure, as far as possible, that land in and around such locations is transferred through sale/purchase only to local residents.
...
6.9 The Govt. of Assam will consider formulating suitable policy to take over land acquired through various anti-encroachment measures and set up a land bank thereupon to settle landless people.
...
7. Tea Gardens
...
7.2 Persons belonging to Tea and Ex-Tea garden community will be given preference in allotment of land acquired from Tea Estate under the Assam Fixation of Ceiling on Land Holdings Act, 1956, as amended from time to time.
Pastoralist/nomadism rights: No specific mention.
Cultural heritage: Land, property and environment→Cultural heritage→Tangible
6. Land/Forest
...
6.8 In order to preserve the sanctity of iconic/heritage locations, the Govt. of Assam will consider taking steps to identify all such locations and ensure, as far as possible, that land in and around such locations is transferred through sale/purchase only to local residents.
Effective steps will be taken to protect surrounding areas of such locations from encroachment.
...
8. Identity, Culture, Heritage, etc.
8.1 The Govt. of India may consider facilitating acquisition of land at Delhi and provide financial assistance for construction of a Community Centre, which will inculcate the spirit of Srimanta Sankardev and Lachit Borpukhan, at the national level.
8.2 The Govt. of India may consider setting up a Visual Art University in Assam to promote film production, performing arts, animation etc.
8.3 The Govt. of India may consider establishing a Regional Centre of Lalit Kala Academy for the North East in Assam.
8.4 The Govt. of Assam will set up an Archaeology Research Centre at Tezpur.
8.5 An Ethnic Museum will be set up by the Govt. of Assam in Dhemaji, which was the second capital of Ahom kingdom (Dhemaji Habung).
8.6 A heritage centre will be set up by the Govt. of Assam at Jamugurihat (Sonitpur district) for preserving the "Bhaona Culture".
8.7 Cultural Academy and Research Centres will be set up by the Govt. of Assam in erstwhile Lakhimpur, Darrang, Goalpara (to be named after Pratima Pandey Baruah), Kamrup, Sivasagar, Cachar and Nagaon districts, which are known for their rich cultural tradition since pre-Independence days.
...
Annexure-III
...
28. An international cultural centre in Guwahati to promote people to people socio-cultural contact with neighbouring countries
Environment: Preamble
...
However, the problem of illegal influx posed serious challenges to the indigenous Assamese communities and adversely impacted the demographic composition, socio-cultural milieu, land and forest resources, and overall economic and political fabric of the State.
...
6. Land/Forest
...
6.6 The State Govt. will consider utilising 'Char' land for other purposes such as large scale plantations to increase the green cover.
...
6.10 The Govt. of Assam will take necessary steps to protect forest land from being encroached.
Forest Department will co-opt local communities, who have emotional attachment with the forest and its flora/fauna, in such efforts.
...
Annexure-I
...
19. Implementation of wild life friendly measures on Kaziranga National Park stretch of NH-715 (Baihata to Sonapur section) and (Basistha to Jorabat section) on NH 37
...
43. Rejuvenation, bioremediation and conservation of Silsako Beel at Guwahati
...
Annexure-II
...
13. Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project in:
(a) Assam-Dibrugarh and Tinsukia Sub Project (Zone-A) (b) Assam-Morigaon Nagaon Tezpur Sub project (Zone-B) (c) Assam-Guwahati West P.G.P Sub project (Zone-C) (d) Assam-Barpeta Goalpara Dhubri sub project (Zone D)
...
17. Eco-Conservation and Development of Assam Wetlands and Integrated Fisheries in a sustainable manner
...
Annexure-III
...
Rural areas (Dhakuakhana, Dhemaji, Charaideo and Boko) to be declared as eco-sensitive zone for survival of Muga silk culture
26. Setting up of a Germplasm Bank in Horticulture College at Nalbari (Lokhopur) for development of indigenous varieties of flora and fauna and collection and preservation of indigenous/heirloom seeds
...
33. Development of eco-tourism and state of the art water sports hub along with fresh water
Water or riparian rights or access: 6. Land/Forest
...
Necessary measures will be taken to prevent further encroachment in 'Char' areas and other government land including reserved land (PGR, VGR, Wet lands, etc.).
...
Annexure-I
...
36. Integrated Water Resources Management of Buridehing Basin
...
43. Rejuvenation, bioremediation and conservation of Silsako Beel at Guwahati
...
Annexure-II
...
11. Protection of lives and livelihoods of people of Assam in flood affected areas by taking up Integrated River Basin Management Projects
12. Long term and sustainable development of Brahmaputra riverine areas by taking up projects like Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and River Erosion Risk Management Programme
13. Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project in:
...
17. Eco-Conservation and Development of Assam Wetlands and Integrated Fisheries in a sustainable manner
...
Annexure-III
...
33. Development of eco-tourism and state of the art water sports hub along with fresh water
fisheries at Pahu-Garh (Sivasager district), Kalang River (Nagaon district) and Deuri Silabandhabil (Kaliabar), From Bouta bil to Kapfa bil Wetland (hiafbariBarpeta district), Dheer Bill (Dhuburi district), MatapungMaguri bill (Tinsukia district) and Bagibill of Dibrugarh district.

Security sector

Security Guarantees: 6. Land/Forest
...
Effective measures will be taken to remove/evict such encroachments and prevent re-encroachment in the cleared areas.
...
Effective steps will be taken to protect surrounding areas of such locations from encroachment.
Ceasefire: No specific mention.
Police: 5. NRC/Illegal Immigration
...
5.3 Effective measures, including use of latest state of the art technologies, will continue to be taken jointly by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam to secure international borders to prevent fresh illegal influx into the country.
5.4 The State Govt. will take necessary steps to augment the capacity of Assam Police Border Organisation as a second line of defence on the international border in order to effectively prevent illegal influx into the country.
...
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
9.7 Army/Paramilitary, Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Police will organise recruitment rallies for eligible cadres of ULFA as well as other youths in the State.
...
9.8 The Govt. of Assam may consider reviewing from time to time the existing policy for recruitment in Police department with respect to reservation for former militants and recruitment of youth in militancy-affected districts.
...
On compassionate grounds, the Govt. of Assam agrees to examine the issue and provide financial compensation of Rs. 10 Lakhs to the next of kith and kin of each of these missing cadres, based on due verification by Police.
Armed forces: 9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
9.7 Army/Paramilitary, Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Police will organise recruitment rallies for eligible cadres of ULFA as well as other youths in the State.
DDR: 9.2 ULFA shall submit a list of their cadres to Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam within a week of signing of the MoS.
Security sector→DDR→Demilitarisation provisions
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
9.1 ULFA shall abjure the path of violence, give up all arms/ammunition and disband the armed organisation within one month of signing of the MoS. All designated camps/Nav Nirman Kendras occupied by ULFA armed cadres shall be vacated forthwith.
Possession of any weapon after signing of the MoS shall be considered illegal.
Security sector→DDR→DDR programmes
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
The names of cadres shall be scrutinised and verified by the Screening Committee headed by Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam, before their rehabilitation. Unverified cadres shall not be given any rehabilitation benefit.
9.3 A Committee headed by Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam shall assess the rehabilitation needs of individual cadres based on age profile, educational qualification, general area of residence etc.
The Committee may also involve concerned Departments of the State Govt. and successful entrepreneurs/NGOs in the process.
The Committee will function under the supervision of the Secretary, Home & Political Department, Govt. of Assam.
9.4 Necessary measures will be taken by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam to rehabilitate the members of ULFA.
Such measures shall include (i) lump sum payment of ex-gratia as per extant policy, (ii) funding economic activities through existing Govt. schemes relating to fisheries, piggery, organic farming, poultry farming, agro-based industries, tea/rubber/indigo plantation, etc. (iii) trade/vocational/skill development training based on locally available resources, and (iv) recruitment in appropriate Govt. jobs as per eligibility.
9.5 Efforts will be made to cover the members of ULFA under various ongoing Central/State Govt. schemes for employment generation and other benefits, as per norms.
Land used for designated camps/Nav Nirman Kendras will be considered for allotment by the State Govt. to homeless ULFA members.
...
9.7 Army/Paramilitary, Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Police will organise recruitment rallies for eligible cadres of ULFA as well as other youths in the State.
Pre-recruitment training rallies will be organised by the agencies to facilitate the process.
9.8 The Govt. of Assam may consider reviewing from time to time the existing policy for recruitment in Police department with respect to reservation for former militants and recruitment of youth in militancy-affected districts.
Intelligence services: No specific mention.
Parastatal/rebel and opposition group forces: Preamble
...
The Government of India and the Government of Assam recently held several rounds of talks with ULFA in furtherance of this objective, which culminated in the signing of this tripartite Memorandum of Settlement (MoS).
...
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
9.1 ULFA shall abjure the path of violence, give up all arms/ammunition and disband the armed organisation within one month of signing of the MoS. All designated camps/Nav Nirman Kendras occupied by ULFA armed cadres shall be vacated forthwith.
Possession of any weapon after signing of the MoS shall be considered illegal.
9.2 ULFA shall submit a list of their cadres to Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam within a week of signing of the MoS.
The names of cadres shall be scrutinised and verified by the Screening Committee headed by Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam, before their rehabilitation. Unverified cadres shall not be given any rehabilitation benefit.
9.3 A Committee headed by Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam shall assess the rehabilitation needs of individual cadres based on age profile, educational qualification, general area of residence etc.
The Committee may also involve concerned Departments of the State Govt. and successful entrepreneurs/NGOs in the process.
...
9.4 Necessary measures will be taken by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam to rehabilitate the members of ULFA.
Such measures shall include (i) lump sum payment of ex-gratia as per extant policy, (ii) funding economic activities through existing Govt. schemes relating to fisheries, piggery, organic farming, poultry farming, agro-based industries, tea/rubber/indigo plantation, etc. (iii) trade/vocational/skill development training based on locally available resources, and (iv) recruitment in appropriate Govt. jobs as per eligibility.
9.5 Efforts will be made to cover the members of ULFA under various ongoing Central/State Govt. schemes for employment generation and other benefits, as per norms.
Land used for designated camps/Nav Nirman Kendras will be considered for allotment by the State Govt. to homeless ULFA members.
9.6 Criminal cases registered against cadres of ULFA for non-heinous offences will be withdrawn by Govt. of Assam as per procedure established by law.
Criminal cases registered in connection with heinous offences will be reviewed on case to case basis according to the existing policy on the subject.
Efforts will be made to complete the exercise preferably within six months of signing of the MoS.
9.7 Army/Paramilitary, Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Police will organise recruitment rallies for eligible cadres of ULFA as well as other youths in the State.
Pre-recruitment training rallies will be organised by the agencies to facilitate the process.
9.8 The Govt. of Assam may consider reviewing from time to time the existing policy for recruitment in Police department with respect to reservation for former militants and recruitment of youth in militancy-affected districts.
9.9 The Govt. of India, Govt. of Assam and ULFA have made sincere efforts over the years to trace out the cadres of ULFA who went missing from time to time, but without much success.
ULFA leaders reiterated the issue and submitted a list (31) of senior cadres who are missing for over last two decades.
On compassionate grounds, the Govt. of Assam agrees to examine the issue and provide financial compensation of Rs. 10 Lakhs to the next of kith and kin of each of these missing cadres, based on due verification by Police.
The State Govt. will also endeavour to provide a permanent source of livelihood to the wives (8) of missing cadres based on their eligibility.
Withdrawal of foreign forces: No specific mention.
Corruption: No specific mention.
Crime/organised crime: No specific mention.
Drugs: No specific mention.
Terrorism: No specific mention.

Transitional justice

Transitional justice general: No specific mention.
Amnesty/pardon: Transitional justice→Amnesty/pardon→Amnesty/pardon proper
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
9.6 Criminal cases registered against cadres of ULFA for non-heinous offences will be withdrawn by Govt. of Assam as per procedure established by law.
Criminal cases registered in connection with heinous offences will be reviewed on case to case basis according to the existing policy on the subject.
Efforts will be made to complete the exercise preferably within six months of signing of the MoS.
Courts: No specific mention.
Mechanism: No specific mention.
Prisoner release: No specific mention.
Vetting: No specific mention.
Victims: No specific mention.
Missing persons: 9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
9.9 The Govt. of India, Govt. of Assam and ULFA have made sincere efforts over the years to trace out the cadres of ULFA who went missing from time to time, but without much success.
ULFA leaders reiterated the issue and submitted a list (31) of senior cadres who are missing for over last two decades.
On compassionate grounds, the Govt. of Assam agrees to examine the issue and provide financial compensation of Rs. 10 Lakhs to the next of kith and kin of each of these missing cadres, based on due verification by Police.
The State Govt. will also endeavour to provide a permanent source of livelihood to the wives (8) of missing cadres based on their eligibility.
Reparations: Transitional justice→Reparations→Material reparations
9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres
...
On compassionate grounds, the Govt. of Assam agrees to examine the issue and provide financial compensation of Rs. 10 Lakhs to the next of kith and kin of each of these missing cadres, based on due verification by Police.
The State Govt. will also endeavour to provide a permanent source of livelihood to the wives (8) of missing cadres based on their eligibility.
Reconciliation: No specific mention.

Implementation

UN signatory: No specific mention.
Other international signatory: No specific mention.
Referendum for agreement: No specific mention.
International mission/force/similar: No specific mention.
Enforcement mechanism: 12. Joint Monitoring Committee
A Joint Monitoring Committee with representatives of Govt. of India (MHA), Chief Secretary/DGP of Govt. of Assam and ULFA shall be set up to periodically monitor implementation of the MoS.

Full Text:

ULFA's PEACE ACCORD FOR ASSAM

MoS with ULFA

Preamble

1.1 Assam is home to numerous indigenous communities having their distinct identities, socio-cultural traditions, languages, etc.

These communities have immensely contributed to the rich heritage of Assam as well as diversity of the country.

However, the problem of illegal influx posed serious challenges to the indigenous Assamese communities and adversely impacted the demographic composition, socio-cultural milieu, land and forest resources, and overall economic and political fabric of the State.

In order to secure their rights, Civil Society Organisations of Assam carried out democratic agitations from time to time.

The Government of India and the Government of Assam have been making concerted endeavour to protect the political, social and economic interests of the indigenous communities, preserve their cultural heritage, restore peace and ensure rapid economic development of the State.

Several legal and administrative measures were taken to this end in the past.

1.2 The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was formed on April 7, 1979 as an armed group in Assam in the backdrop of serious politico-socio-economic disequilibrium in the society on account of large scale illegal influx over decades.

ULFA launched armed campaign with the avowed objective of making Assam independent.

However, after more than three decades of violent conflict with security forces, ULFA signed a tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement with Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam on September 3, 2011, which led to initiation of peace talks.

1.3 Notwithstanding a number of attempts in the past to address the demands of ULFA through peaceful dialogue, the issues remained unresolved.

The Government of India and the Government of Assam recently held several rounds of talks with ULFA in furtherance of this objective, which culminated in the signing of this tripartite Memorandum of Settlement (MoS).

While the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam remain committed to protect the interests of the indigenous communities, ULFA agreed to shun the path of violence, join the peaceful democratic process as established by the law of the land, and uphold the integrity of the country.

2. Political Demands

2.1 The Govt. of India agrees to maintain the territorial integrity of the State of Assam. However, the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam are committed to amicably resolve boundary disputes of Assam with neighbouring States.

2.2 The Govt. of India will consider recommending to the Election Commission of India to follow, as far as possible, the broad guidelines and methodology, which was adopted for the delimitation exercise held in Assam in 2023, in future delimitations as well.

Some of these parameters used in the exercise are rate of growth of population, density of population, principles of historicity of areas and communities, geographical continuity, physical features, facilities of communication and public convenience.

2.3 The Govt. of Assam agrees to constitute a Committee to examine and recommend measures for implementation of political reservation for OBCs/MOBCs in the Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats in the State.

2.4 The issue of exemption for State of Assam from Section 3 of the Citizenship Act, 1955 is currently sub judice in the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India.

Further action, if necessary, will be taken on the basis of the decision by the apex Court.

2.5 A citizen of the country who is ordinarily resident in an Assembly Constituency shall only be entitled to be registered in the voter list of that Constituency.

No person shall be registered in the voter list for more than one Constituency.

2.6 Effective measures will be taken to prevent enrolment of illegal migrants in the voter lists.

All precautions will be taken to ensure thorough scrutiny of new voters at the time of revision of electoral rolls.

The verification exercise should be carried out under the direct supervision of the District Electoral Registration Officer.

3. ST Status for Communities

The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been introduced by the Govt. of India in the Rajya Sabha to include certain communities in the list of the STs in relation to the State of Assam.

The Govt. of Assam has constituted a Committee of Group of Ministers (CGoM) to examine and suggest on the different aspects of reservation of six communities in the State.

The Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam will make efforts to expedite the process after signing of the MoS.

4. Reservation in Education/Employment

4.1 The Govt. of Assam agrees to consider initiating measures to divide OBCs/MOBCs into separate categories and specify quantum of reservation for each category for the purpose of reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.

The State Govt. has already constituted the Assam Backward Classes Commission in April 2022 under the Assam Backward Classes Commission Act, 1993 towards this objective.

4.2 In order to advance the interests of the indigenous communities, the Govt. of Assam may review, from time to time, its policy for reservation in educational institutions and employment under the State Govt.

5. NRC/Illegal Immigration

5.1 Foreigners detected after preparation of the corrected and error-free NRC shall be dealt with as per the law of the land.

5.2 The issue pertaining to reverification of NRC is currently sub judice in the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India. Further action, if necessary, will be taken by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam on the basis of the decision by the apex Court.

5.3 Effective measures, including use of latest state of the art technologies, will continue to be taken jointly by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam to secure international borders to prevent fresh illegal influx into the country.

5.4 The State Govt. will take necessary steps to augment the capacity of Assam Police Border Organisation as a second line of defence on the international border in order to effectively prevent illegal influx into the country.

6. Land/Forest

6.1 For efficient management of land resources, the Govt. of Assam will take steps to digitalise all land holdings, preferably within 3 years of signing of the MoS.

6.2 As per the recommendation of the Govt. of India towards establishment, administration and management of a system of Title registration of immovable properties, the Govt. of Assam will consider proposing suitable legislation to provide Conclusive Land Titles to members of indigenous communities who are genuine land holders.

6.3 The Govt. of Assam will take necessary steps to prevent shrinkage/decrease of prime agricultural land.

No agricultural land will ordinarily be allotted or settled for any other purpose except when the State Govt. is of the view that the intended purpose is in public interest such as establishment of industry for employment generation, construction of public institution/office, hospital, dispensary, etc.

6.4 Newly created 'Char' (river islet) areas will be treated as government land.

Necessary measures will be taken to prevent further encroachment in 'Char' areas and other government land including reserved land (PGR, VGR, Wet lands, etc.).

6.5 Encroachment in 'Char' areas as well as in other government land will be identified through satellite imagery in a time-bound manner.

Effective measures will be taken to remove/evict such encroachments and prevent re-encroachment in the cleared areas.

However, rights of indigenous people protected under the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 shall be respected in the process of eviction/removal.

6.6 The State Govt. will consider utilising 'Char' land for other purposes such as large scale plantations to increase the green cover.

6.7 Existing mechanisms at the State and District level will be strengthened to review the status of all land allotted/leased by the Govt. for various purposes in order to ascertain (i) if such land has been put to use for which it was allotted/leased, (ii) whether any of the terms and conditions has been violated by the allottee, and (iii) if any land in excess of allotment has been encroached by the allottee.

6.8 In order to preserve the sanctity of iconic/heritage locations, the Govt. of Assam will consider taking steps to identify all such locations and ensure, as far as possible, that land in and around such locations is transferred through sale/purchase only to local residents.

Effective steps will be taken to protect surrounding areas of such locations from encroachment.

6.9 The Govt. of Assam will consider formulating suitable policy to take over land acquired through various anti-encroachment measures and set up a land bank thereupon to settle landless people.

6.10 The Govt. of Assam will take necessary steps to protect forest land from being encroached.

Forest Department will co-opt local communities, who have emotional attachment with the forest and its flora/fauna, in such efforts.

7. Tea Gardens

7.1 The Govt. of Assam will consider constituting a Committee under the Chairmanship of a Cabinet Minister to examine the issue of sick tea gardens and recommend steps as to how to revive them.

The Committee will also study various issues relating to welfare of the tea garden workers and recommend appropriate measures to address their grievances, in consultation with all stakeholders including the plantation owners.

7.2 Persons belonging to Tea and Ex-Tea garden community will be given preference in allotment of land acquired from Tea Estate under the Assam Fixation of Ceiling on Land Holdings Act, 1956, as amended from time to time.

7.3 Efforts will be made by the Govt. of India to re-locate the Office of Tea Board of India from Kolkata to a suitable location in Assam.

8. Identity, Culture, Heritage, etc.

8.1 The Govt. of India may consider facilitating acquisition of land at Delhi and provide financial assistance for construction of a Community Centre, which will inculcate the spirit of Srimanta Sankardev and Lachit Borpukhan, at the national level.

8.2 The Govt. of India may consider setting up a Visual Art University in Assam to promote film production, performing arts, animation etc.

8.3 The Govt. of India may consider establishing a Regional Centre of Lalit Kala Academy for the North East in Assam.

8.4 The Govt. of Assam will set up an Archaeology Research Centre at Tezpur.

8.5 An Ethnic Museum will be set up by the Govt. of Assam in Dhemaji, which was the second capital of Ahom kingdom (Dhemaji Habung).

8.6 A heritage centre will be set up by the Govt. of Assam at Jamugurihat (Sonitpur district) for preserving the "Bhaona Culture".

8.7 Cultural Academy and Research Centres will be set up by the Govt. of Assam in erstwhile Lakhimpur, Darrang, Goalpara (to be named after Pratima Pandey Baruah), Kamrup, Sivasagar, Cachar and Nagaon districts, which are known for their rich cultural tradition since pre-Independence days.

9. Rehabilitation and Resettlement of armed cadres

9.1 ULFA shall abjure the path of violence, give up all arms/ammunition and disband the armed organisation within one month of signing of the MoS. All designated camps/Nav Nirman Kendras occupied by ULFA armed cadres shall be vacated forthwith.

Possession of any weapon after signing of the MoS shall be considered illegal.

9.2 ULFA shall submit a list of their cadres to Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam within a week of signing of the MoS.

The names of cadres shall be scrutinised and verified by the Screening Committee headed by Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam, before their rehabilitation. Unverified cadres shall not be given any rehabilitation benefit.

9.3 A Committee headed by Addl. DG, Special Branch, Assam shall assess the rehabilitation needs of individual cadres based on age profile, educational qualification, general area of residence etc.

The Committee may also involve concerned Departments of the State Govt. and successful entrepreneurs/NGOs in the process.

The Committee will function under the supervision of the Secretary, Home & Political Department, Govt. of Assam.

9.4 Necessary measures will be taken by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam to rehabilitate the members of ULFA.

Such measures shall include (i) lump sum payment of ex-gratia as per extant policy, (ii) funding economic activities through existing Govt. schemes relating to fisheries, piggery, organic farming, poultry farming, agro-based industries, tea/rubber/indigo plantation, etc. (iii) trade/vocational/skill development training based on locally available resources, and (iv) recruitment in appropriate Govt. jobs as per eligibility.

9.5 Efforts will be made to cover the members of ULFA under various ongoing Central/State Govt. schemes for employment generation and other benefits, as per norms.

Land used for designated camps/Nav Nirman Kendras will be considered for allotment by the State Govt. to homeless ULFA members.

9.6 Criminal cases registered against cadres of ULFA for non-heinous offences will be withdrawn by Govt. of Assam as per procedure established by law.

Criminal cases registered in connection with heinous offences will be reviewed on case to case basis according to the existing policy on the subject.

Efforts will be made to complete the exercise preferably within six months of signing of the MoS.

9.7 Army/Paramilitary, Central Armed Police Forces and Assam Police will organise recruitment rallies for eligible cadres of ULFA as well as other youths in the State.

Pre-recruitment training rallies will be organised by the agencies to facilitate the process.

9.8 The Govt. of Assam may consider reviewing from time to time the existing policy for recruitment in Police department with respect to reservation for former militants and recruitment of youth in militancy-affected districts.

9.9 The Govt. of India, Govt. of Assam and ULFA have made sincere efforts over the years to trace out the cadres of ULFA who went missing from time to time, but without much success.

ULFA leaders reiterated the issue and submitted a list (31) of senior cadres who are missing for over last two decades.

On compassionate grounds, the Govt. of Assam agrees to examine the issue and provide financial compensation of Rs. 10 Lakhs to the next of kith and kin of each of these missing cadres, based on due verification by Police.

The State Govt. will also endeavour to provide a permanent source of livelihood to the wives (8) of missing cadres based on their eligibility.

10. Planned Development

10.1 The Govt. of India will take up a number of developmental projects in Assam in the next few years covering core infrastructure sectors such as Road Transport & Highways, Railways, Flood and Soil Erosion, Petroleum & Natural Gas, MSME, Textiles, MEITY, etc.

A list of identified projects is at Annexure — I.

10.2 The Govt. of Assam will also take up a number of developmental projects in the State in the next few years covering various sectors such as Energy, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Roads & Bridges, Floods and Soil Erosion, Wetland Development, Education, Cottage Industry and Delivery of services to improve ease of living.

A list of identified projects is at Annexure — II.

11. Special Development Package

11.1 A Special Development Package of Rs. 5000 Crores will be provided over a period of five years with matching contribution by the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam for various developmental initiatives in the State.

11.2 Illustrative list of projects which may be considered for implementation under the Special Development Package subject to feasibility and availability of funds is appended at Annexure — III.

Specific projects to be implemented will be mutually decided by the parties to the MoS.

12. Joint Monitoring Committee

A Joint Monitoring Committee with representatives of Govt. of India (MHA), Chief Secretary/DGP of Govt. of Assam and ULFA shall be set up to periodically monitor implementation of the MoS.

The Committee will also monitor progress of execution of various developmental projects undertaken under the Special Development Package.

The above Agreement is signed on December 29, 2023 at New Delhi in the presence of Hon'ble Union Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, and Hon'ble Chief Minister, Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sharma.

SIGNATORIES

Following representatives of ULFA append their signature to this Agreement:

1. Rajib Rajkonwar (Chairman)

2. Pradip Gogoi (Vice-Chairman)

3. Golap Baruah (General Secretary)

4. Chitra Hazarika (Finance Secretary)

5. Pranati Deka Hazarika (Cultural Secretary)

6. Shashadhar Choudhury (Foreign Secretary)

7. Hitesh Kalita (Deputy Commander-in-Chief)

8. Deepak Daimary (Publicity Secretary)

Other Signatories:

Chief Secretary, Govt.

of Assam

Addl.

Secretary/NE, MHA, GoI

Dr. Himanta Biswa Sharma, Chief Minister, Assam

Annexure-I

List of Developmental Projects to be taken up by GoI

A. ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

1. Highway from Diphu to West Karbi Anglong via Hamren

2. 4-lane Gauripur Bypass from Dumardohan to Baladmara via Khudimari, Fulkumari, Charaldanga, Sajuarkuti, Geramari

3. Two lane road from Majuli to Jorhat on NH-715K

4. Stage strengthening of NH-127C from Samthaibari to Dadgiri

5. New Bridge over River Gai on NH-15

6. River Training Work for New 2-Lane Major Bridge between Majuli and Jorhat

7. Construction & up-gradation of NH-127C from Samthaibari to Galengphu (Indo-Bhutan Border)

8. Widening of NH-329

9. Tamenglong – Mahur Road from Jiri River to Hangrum

10. 4-Laning of Bilasipara-Tulungia and Silchar-Jiribam

11. 4-Laning of Silchar ISBT of NH-37 and NH-6

12. 4-Laning of NH-37/NH-8 near Sutarkandi (Spur Connectivity to Indo/Bangladesh Border) and proposed Nilam bazar/ Cheragi Bypass on Silchar-Churaibari

13. 4-Laning of NH-8 (proposed Nilambazar/Cheragi Bypass near Chandkhira Village and near Churaibari Village (Assam/Tripura Border) on Silchar-Churaibari

14. 4-Laning of Malidor-Ratachera-Kalain-Badarpur

15. 4-Laning of Silchar-Jiribam

16. Construction of new highway from NH-37 near Pailapool to NH-137 connecting Jaipur, Harinagar, Kumarcherra, Zinam, Hagrum (Mahur-Tamenglong Road)

17. (

a) 4-Lane Approach road from Numaligarh side to Brahmaputra Tunnel on South Bank

(b) 4-Laning of Brahmaputra Tunnel Connectivity across River Brahmaputra between Gohpur (on NH-15) and Numaligarh (on NH71)

18. Guwahati Ring Road including Brahmaputra Bridge

19. Implementation of wild life friendly measures on Kaziranga National Park stretch of NH-715 (Baihata to Sonapur section) and (Basistha to Jorabat section) on NH 37

B. RAILWAYS

20. World Class Station Building at Kamakhya Railway Station

21. New Railway line Salona-Khumtai

22. New Railway line Tezpur-Silghat

23. Saraighat Bridge doubling

24. Doubling of Kamakhya — New Guwahati — 3rd Line

25. Doubling of Lumding – Tinsukia Jn – Dibrugarh railway line

26. Multi-tracking of Azara- Tetelia

27. Multitracking from Khandikar- Kendukona (Rangia By-pass)

28. Chandranathpur — Agartala

29. Agthori – Dekargaon (New line)

30. New lines :

Ledo – Jairampur- Kharsang;

Gogamukh—Jorhat;

Jowai-Khlieriat—Chandranathpur;

Kokrajhar-Gelephu

C. FLOOD AND SOIL EROSION

31. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Kushiyara

32. Raising and strengthening of Dyke from Bahari to Baghbar

33. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Garuphella

34. Anti-erosion measures at different reaches of river Longa

35. Protection of Majuli island from flood and erosion of river Brahmaputra

36. Integrated Water Resources Management of Buridehing Basin

37. Integrated flood and erosion management of Manas and Beki rivers in Baksa and Barpeta districts

38. Integrated flood and river bank erosion management works at Rohmoria

39. Protection of Flood embankment along Kollong river from Raha to Jagi

40. Construction of Dyke along right bank of river Kollong from Dhankhunda to Gobardhan hill and sluice gate at Dhepuijan, Ghoramarajaan and Kajolijan

41. Protection of Kolbari and Lality area from the erosion of river Brahmaputra (Construction of three nos of spurs and a check dam)

42. Protection of various villages from the erosion of river Aie

43. Rejuvenation, bioremediation and conservation of Silsako Beel at Guwahati

D. PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

44. Pipeline from Duliajan to Majuli

45. Laying of pipeline from Narayanpur, Assam to Banderdewa & Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh

46. Pipeline from Guwahati, Assam to Sandrup Jonkhar, Bhutan

47. Pipelines from Silchar, Assam to Imphal, Manipur via Jiribam

48. Pipeline from Baihata, Assam to Panikhaiti, Assam and from Sonapur, Assam to Tura & Mairang, Meghalaya

49. Capacity augmentation of Bongaigaon LPG Plant

50. Laying of Guwahati-Silchar-Imphal Product Pipeline (GSIPL)

51. Bongaigaon Refinery Expansion

52. Geleki Redevelopment Project

53. Creation Of Captive Power Plant (CPP) at Geleki

54. Creation of Surface Facilities and Redevelopment of Geleki Field

55. Pipeline Network Project, Rudrasagar

56. Creation of Captive Power Plant (CPP) at Rudrasagar

57. Pilot implementation of Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR) in Rudrasagar, Lakwa, Lakhmani

E. MSME

58. Development of New Industrial Estate at Chenga, Bahari, District Barpeta

59. Setting up of a new industrial estate at 2, Dhemajibari, Biswanath Cheriali

60. Up-gradation of the Integrated Infrastructure Development Centre IIDC, Silapathar, District Dhemaji

61. Development of New Industrial Estate at Maizgram, District Karimganj

62. Up-gradation of the Integrated Infrastructure Development Centre, Titabor, Jorhat

63. Development of New Industrial Estate at Dighalichapari, District-Sonitpur

64. Infrastructure Development Facilities & Up-gradation in the existing Complex, Manja, Karbi Anglong, Assam

F. TEXTILES

65. Eri and Muga Silk Development Project for creation of livelihood of forest communities

66. Integrated project for Eri Silk Industry

67. Project for empowering women from forest dependant communities in Soil to Silk value chain (Ava Creation – SPV)

G. MEITY

68. Research Centre for Nano-technology

Annexure-II

List of Developmental Projects to be taken up by Govt.

of Assam

A. ENERGY

1. Development of 3000 MW Solar power projects in Assam

2. Increased Hydro-Power generation by expansion of KarbiLangpi Project with additional 50 MW

3. Develop Assam as a region hub by establishing 250 MW Battery Energy Storage

4. Increased power supply in the State by exploiting green sources by developing 212 MW Solar Parks in the State

5. Development of a new 25 MW Namrup Solar Power Project

6. Development of 20 MW Sonbeel Solar Power Project at Karimganj

B. PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS

7. Increased oil and gas business in Assam in the midstream and downstream by expanding the capacity and diversification of NRL into 9 MMPTA

C. ROADS AND BRIDGES

8. Improved rural connectivity by construction of new and strengthening of Resilient Rural Bridges in the State

9. Improvement of communication by taking up of Assam Bridge project connecting Palashbari

10. Special focus and investment for development of Roads in Hill Areas in Assam with suitable designs for Disaster Resilience

D. FLOODS AND SOIL EROSION

11. Protection of lives and livelihoods of people of Assam in flood affected areas by taking up Integrated River Basin Management Projects

12. Long term and sustainable development of Brahmaputra riverine areas by taking up projects like Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and River Erosion Risk Management Programme

13. Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project in:

(a) Assam-Dibrugarh and Tinsukia Sub Project (Zone-A) (b) Assam-Morigaon Nagaon Tezpur Sub project (Zone-B) (c) Assam-Guwahati West P.G.P Sub project (Zone-C) (d) Assam-Barpeta Goalpara Dhubri sub project (Zone D)

E. MISCELLANEOUS

14. Systemic transformation of Governance & Service Delivery in Assam to make it more pro-people and accountable by targeted investments

15. Focussed Investment to develop modern Urban Infrastructure and Urban Sector in Assam to promote Ease of Living

16. Develop and Implement time-bound program to cover all major towns of Assam with urban gas distribution to provide connections to all households in 5 years

F. WETLAND DEVELOPMENT

17. Eco-Conservation and Development of Assam Wetlands and Integrated Fisheries in a sustainable manner

G. EDUCATION

18. Mission Mode and focused efforts and investments to support School education in Assam

H. COTTAGE INDUSTRY

19. Bell metal, Brass metal and charcoal depot based industries to be established in Sarthebari (Bajali District).

State Govt. to look into the problems of easy availability of raw material to ensure survival of Bell based Assamese handicraft cottage industry.

Annexure-III

Illustrative list of developmental projects to be implemented under Special Development Package

A. EDUCATION

1. IIM at Guwahati subject to laid down govt. norms

2. School of Planning and Architecture subject to laid down govt. norms

3. Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) subject to laid down govt. norms

4. A University in the name of Su-Ka-Pha in Charaideo district subject to laid down govt. norms

5. Education Park at Guwahati to impart interacting, demonstrative and physical education to youth on physical science, life and social sciences

6. Training School for imparting hands on training in Oil and Gas operations

B. RAILWAYS

7. North Eastern Frontier Railways to be re-constituted to cover only the States of North East Region subject to laid down norms of Railway Board

8. Railway equipment manufacturing plant at Bongaigaon

C. FLOOD AND SOIL EROSION

9. Flood and erosion problem will be treated as a national priority

D. INDUSTRY

10. Food processing Industrial park in Malinibari of Silchar District

11. Special Economic Zone at Daranga Mela area of Indo-Bhutan border (Baksa District)

12. Industrial area for value added production from Banana in Goalpara district

13. Industrial area for value added production from Pineapple in Karbi Anglong district

14. A bamboo-based industry in Barak Valley

E. TOURISM

15. Development of Kaziranga as a high-end national level tourist attraction centre with various entertainment amenities, Botanical and Floral Garden, Orchid Centre, Eco Forest Museum and opportunities to showcase local culture, craft, cottage industry, etc.

16. Tea Museum at Dibrugarh

17. Development of tourist spots at Rangghar, Talatalghar, Karengghar, Khaspur ruins, Brahmaputra waterfront at Guwahati, battlefield of Saraighat war and Bogeebil

18. Development of water sports activities at Bogeebil (Dibrugarh District)

F. SPORTS

19. A multi-facility sports complex with Centre of Excellence in Volleyball at Nalbari

20. Centre of Excellence for Football in Dibrugarh and Baksa districts

21. Multi-purpose sports complex at Darrang and Charaideo districts

22. Football Academy at Kaliabor (Nagaon District)

G. AGRICULTURE

23. An internationally accredited Organic Produce Certification Centre to be set up in Assam Agriculture University

24. A Regional Pesticide Testing laboratory to be set up at Guwahati

25. Muga Parks at Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Sivasagar and South Kamrup with special incentives to Muga producers.

Rural areas (Dhakuakhana, Dhemaji, Charaideo and Boko) to be declared as eco-sensitive zone for survival of Muga silk culture

26. Setting up of a Germplasm Bank in Horticulture College at Nalbari (Lokhopur) for development of indigenous varieties of flora and fauna and collection and preservation of indigenous/heirloom seeds

27. Solar Cold Storage in Sadia

H. ACT EAST POLICY

28. An international cultural centre in Guwahati to promote people to people socio-cultural contact with neighbouring countries

29. An International level amusement park to be set up near Mayang and Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary area in collaboration with private sector

I. SKILL DEVELOPMENT

30. Skill Development Centres will be set up to function in close coordination with industry and impart specialised training to the youth for enhancing their capabilities in areas that are in demand overseas such as hospitality, healthcare, construction, manufacturing etc.

J. BIO-FUEL SECTOR

31. A Committee will be constituted to study and recommend on promotion of investment and formulation of policy in consultation with Niti Aayog to make Assam a hub for green energy

32. Green Banks will be set up to provide financial assistance for green energy projects.

K. WETLAND DEVELOPMENT

33. Development of eco-tourism and state of the art water sports hub along with fresh water

fisheries at Pahu-Garh (Sivasager district), Kalang River (Nagaon district) and Deuri Silabandhabil (Kaliabar), From Bouta bil to Kapfa bil Wetland (hiafbariBarpeta district), Dheer Bill (Dhuburi district), MatapungMaguri bill (Tinsukia district) and Bagibill of Dibrugarh district.

L. ROADS AND BRIDGES

34. Bridges at (i) Boko-Mukalmua (ii) Disangmukh-Matmora (Sivasagar district-Lakhimpur district) (iii) Lahorighat (Morigaon district) – Udalguri (Udalguri district), and (iv) Mora DeopaniAmarpur Telia Bari to be constructed.

35. Construction of road from Khatkhati to Namrup Dilighat bridge along Assam-Nagaland boundary.

36. Reopening of road communication on Goalpara – Dalu – Nalitabari axis (road along IndoBangladesh boarder which links different border trade points).

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