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, aiming to strengthen healthcare delivery for the state’s tea tribal community.
The ambitious health screening initiative seeks to ensure universal, high-quality medical services for tea garden workers, who make up nearly 20% of Assam’s population. The government approved the scheme in the 2025–26 State Budget and is rolling it out as a pilot across 20 selected tea gardens, including Moran, Sessa and Ghagrajan.
Officials said the scheme primarily targets the high incidence of communicable and non-communicable diseases in tea estates. Studies have shown that tea garden workers remain highly vulnerable to anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, tuberculosis and leprosy.
Speaking at the launch event, Minister Singhal said the tea industry forms the backbone of Assam’s economy and ensuring the comprehensive well-being of tea workers remains a key government priority. Under the scheme, ASHA workers will carry out door-to-door visits to fill Community-Based Assessment (C-BAC) forms, while Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) will deliver on-site diagnostics and treatment services.
A key highlight of the initiative is the introduction of Women’s Health and Wellness Ambassadors, who will lead awareness drives within tea gardens. The government will also set up Health Choupals to counsel workers and discourage early addiction to tobacco and alcohol, which often begins before the age of 25 in these areas.
In addition, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) teams will work to ensure 100% health coverage for children and adolescents, focusing on tackling malnutrition and developmental issues among young beneficiaries.