Guwahati, Oct. 6: The Assam government on Monday launched the “Shraddhanjali” scheme, which is a special scheme to provide complete assistance for the dignified and respectful transportation of mortal remains of deceased domiciled residents from anywhere in India back to the state.
Approved by the Assam Cabinet on June 22, 2025, the scheme will be implemented by the Special Branch (SB) of Assam Police.
Launching the scheme at a function held at Lok Sabha Bhawan here, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the scheme is a humanitarian initiative by the Assam government to cover the full cost of repatriating the mortal remains of Assamese youths who die while working or studying in other Indian states.
Sarma said even before the formal launch of the scheme, his government had extended the service informally, and so far, the mortal remains of 24 individuals have been brought back to the state with full honour this year.
“However, with the launch of the scheme, the service becomes fully institutionalised,” the chief minister said.
The scheme will cover students pursuing education in colleges and universities or other institutions outside Assam, as well as the youth engaged in low-income jobs outside the state.
In case of death of such individuals, their families or acquaintances may contact the Government of Assam through designated helpline numbers. They can report such death cases through the police control room helpline number 112, Special Branch Control Room number 0361-2381511, the Sewa Setu Portal or WhatsApp at +91 91810-14888.
“Such information can also be conveyed to the chief secretary or the chief minister’s office directly,” he said.
Sarma further said the scheme is also designed to ensure that in cases of unnatural deaths of persons outside the state of Assam, the Special Branch of Assam Police would provide necessary legal and procedural assistance to the affected families.
“When required, designated police officers from Assam will travel to the concerned state to ensure the dignified repatriation of the mortal remains,” he said.
Highlighting the financial challenges faced by families in such circumstances, he said that bringing mortal remains from another state to Assam usually costs around Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000, making it difficult for many parents to see their loved ones for the last time.
“The ‘Shraddhanjali’ scheme, therefore, seeks to provide emotional and practical support to such bereaved families. I thank the Special Branch of Assam Police for implementing the scheme,” the chief minister said.
