The Assam government has launched a compassionate initiative called the Shraddhanjali Scheme to ensure the dignified return of deceased Assamese people who pass away outside the state. This welfare step aims to support families in distress and uphold the values of humanity and respect even after death.
The scheme reflects Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s vision to provide emotional and financial relief to families who lose their loved ones far from home. It assures that every Assamese, irrespective of financial background, receives a respectful farewell in their homeland.
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Objective of the Shraddhanjali Scheme
The Shraddhanjali Scheme is designed to assist families in bringing back the mortal remains of Assamese citizens who die in other states. Many families face challenges such as high transportation costs and complex formalities when a relative dies far from home.
By taking responsibility for repatriation, the government aims to ease this emotional and financial burden. The scheme especially focuses on helping students, migrant workers, and people from low-income backgrounds who cannot afford the expenses involved.
Through this step, the government seeks to uphold dignity in death and show that every life matters equally. The dignified return of deceased is not just a gesture of care but a statement of compassion for those who have contributed to society in different parts of the country.
Eligibility and Coverage
The scheme mainly covers residents of Assam who die while working, studying, or living in other states. Families can avail of the facility by providing necessary identification documents, death certificates, and location details.
However, individuals who pass away during medical treatment outside Assam or those from financially strong families are not eligible under the scheme. The focus remains on supporting those who genuinely require state assistance.
By setting these criteria, the government ensures that benefits reach those in need while maintaining transparency in implementation.
Implementation and Coordination
The Shraddhanjali Scheme is managed by the Assam Police’s Special Branch, which acts as the nodal agency. Senior officers at the state and district levels coordinate the process to ensure swift and smooth repatriation.
Families can request assistance through dedicated helpline numbers, emergency services, or official portals. Once verified, the authorities take responsibility for arranging transportation, completing formalities, and bringing the mortal remains back to Assam.
In certain cases, officers may also assist with post-mortem or documentation required from other states. This structured system ensures that the dignified return of deceased happens without unnecessary delay.
Financial Support for Families
Along with arranging transportation, the Assam government has announced an ex-gratia amount for the families of deceased individuals brought back under the Shraddhanjali Scheme. This financial assistance helps families manage funeral costs and other immediate needs.
By combining emotional and monetary support, the government ensures that no Assamese family feels abandoned in a moment of deep sorrow. The policy strengthens community bonds and reaffirms that the state stands beside its people in both life and death.
Steps for Availing the Scheme
Families can follow a few simple steps to access the benefits of the Shraddhanjali Scheme:
- Contact Authorities: Families can call the emergency helpline or reach out to the local administration for guidance.
- Submit Documents: Necessary identification papers and a death certificate should be submitted for verification.
- Verification and Approval: Officials confirm details and initiate arrangements.
- Transportation: The mortal remains are transported back to Assam and handed over to the family with dignity.
This quick and coordinated process ensures that the dignified return of deceased takes place without long waiting periods or complicated procedures.
Significance of the Scheme
The Shraddhanjali Scheme is more than a welfare initiative; it is an emotional assurance to every Assamese living beyond state borders. It sends a powerful message that the government values every citizen and their right to a dignified final journey.
In times of grief, families often struggle to manage expenses and paperwork. By introducing this program, the Assam government offers comfort, care, and timely help. It also encourages interstate cooperation to ensure smooth handling of such sensitive matters.
This scheme represents empathy in governance and shows how a simple initiative can make a profound difference in people’s lives.
Conclusion
The Shraddhanjali Scheme marks a compassionate step by the Assam government towards ensuring the dignified return of deceased citizens from outside the state. It not only provides financial and logistical support but also brings comfort to grieving families.
By implementing this scheme, the government has set an example of humanity in public policy. It reaffirms that dignity should be preserved at every stage of life — and beyond.
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