Dibrugarh: Assam Health Minister Ashok Singhal on Saturday launched the state-level pilot project of the Swasthaban Shramik Yojana at Jutlibari Tea Estate in Dibrugarh, marking a major step towards strengthening healthcare services for the state’s tea tribal community.
The health screening initiative aims to provide universal and quality medical care to tea garden workers, who constitute nearly 20 per cent of Assam’s population. Approved in the 2025–26 State Budget, the scheme is being implemented on a pilot basis in 20 selected tea estates, including Moran, Sessa and Ghagrajan. Officials said the programme focuses on addressing the high burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases prevalent in tea garden areas. Health studies indicate that workers are particularly vulnerable to anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, tuberculosis and leprosy.
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Addressing the gathering, Singhal said the tea industry is the backbone of Assam’s economy and the welfare of tea workers remains a top priority of the government. Under the scheme, ASHA workers will conduct door-to-door visits to complete Community-Based Assessment Checklists (C-BAC), while Mobile Medical Units will provide on-site diagnostic and treatment facilities. The initiative also introduces Women’s Health and Wellness Ambassadors to spearhead awareness campaigns within tea estates. Health Choupals will be organised to counsel workers and curb early addiction to tobacco and alcohol, a common concern among youths.
Additionally, teams under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) will work to ensure complete health coverage for children and adolescents, with special emphasis on combating malnutrition and developmental disorders.
