Assam Cabinet Grants 3% Job Quota to Tea Tribes, Expands MMUA for 1 Lakh More Women

Assam cabinet decision 2026 brought two major announcements ahead of Assembly elections. The cabinet approved 3% reservation for tea tribes and Adivasi communities in Class I and Class II state government jobs within the OBC quota. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also announced expansion of the MMUA scheme, adding over 1 lakh new women beneficiaries. So far, 32 lakh women have received ₹10,000 each under the scheme. The decisions are seen as significant political and social measures before the 2026 elections.

Reservation of 3% for Tea Tribes and Adivasis in Assam

• The Assam cabinet decision 2026 introduces 3% reservation for tea tribes and Adivasi communities in Class I and Class II government jobs.
• Earlier, reservation benefits were limited to Grade III and Grade IV posts. Now, the quota will apply to higher-level posts such as state civil services and professors.
• Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the new rule will apply immediately to upcoming job advertisements and from next year for other categories. T
• his Adivasi reservation Assam move aims to improve representation in administrative and academic positions.

MMUA Scheme Assam Expanded for 1 Lakh More Women

• The MMUA (Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan) scheme Assam has been expanded to include 1,07,532 additional Self-Help Group members.
• Under this scheme, 32 lakh women have already received ₹10,000 each to promote entrepreneurship and financial independence.
• The Assam cabinet decision 2026 ensures that no eligible beneficiary is left out.
• The scheme focuses on women from minority and underprivileged areas.
• By strengthening SHGs, the government aims to encourage small business activities and improve rural income generation.

Background: Tea Tribes and Adivasi Communities in Assam

• Tea tribes and Adivasis in Assam largely trace their roots to central Indian tribal communities brought during the colonial period to work in tea plantations.
• They form a substantial part of Assam’s workforce and rural population.
• Despite their contribution to the tea economy, socio-economic indicators show gaps in education and employment access.
• The 3% reservation tea tribes policy seeks to improve opportunities in higher administrative posts and enhance social mobility for these communities.

Question

Q. Assam Cabinet approved 3% reservation for tea tribes and Adivasis in which category of jobs?

A) Only Grade IV
B) Only central services
C) Class I and II state government jobs
D) Private sector jobs