In a significant move to honor the spiritual custodians of Assam's heritage, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday launched a new welfare initiative for the state's 'Udasin Bhakts'. These celibate monks, residing in the historic Vaishnavite monasteries known as satras, will now receive monthly financial assistance.
Monthly Stipend for Spiritual Custodians
The scheme, announced by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), guarantees a monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,500 to each eligible monk. According to official estimates, at least 620 Udasin Bhakts living across recognized satras in Assam are set to benefit from this support program.
The CMO stated that this initiative is a formal recognition of the monks' tireless efforts in safeguarding Assam's spiritual and cultural legacy. For centuries, the satras have served as the epicenters of the state's religious and artistic traditions, with the Udasin Bhakts playing a central role in their upkeep and continuity.
A Tribute to Lifelong Devotion
Taking to social media platform X, CM Sarma elaborated on the scheme's intent. He described it as a tribute to the monks who dedicate their entire lives to the service of the satras. "Assam’s satras breathe life into our culture and have held our ethos and values for years," Sarma wrote.
He emphasized that it was only fitting for the state to protect these institutions, upgrade their facilities, and care for the monks who are their pillars. The Chief Minister framed the initiative as a step towards rectifying past oversights, expressing satisfaction at being "able to reverse historical injustices and serve the ones who dedicate their lives to upholding our values and culture."
The support is framed not just as monetary aid but as a profound acknowledgment of the monks' lifelong vows of devotion, spiritual practice, and cultural preservation.
Linking Welfare to a Broader Vision
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to implement the scheme, CM Sarma credited divine blessings. "With Gurujona’s blessings, it is the honour of a lifetime to be able to support the Udasin Bhakts with a monthly assistance of Rs 1,500 to help them in their path of Bhakti," he said.
He concluded by connecting this welfare measure to his government's larger mission for Assam. The Chief Minister stated that such endeavors inspire him to advance the agenda of working for Assam’s 'jati, mati, bheti'—a phrase encompassing the identity, land, and homeland of its people.
The announcement underscores the state government's focus on preserving intangible cultural heritage while providing social security to those at its heart. The direct financial aid is expected to assist the monks in meeting their daily needs, allowing them to continue their spiritual duties without material hardship.
