Assam Elections 2026: BJP Focuses on Farm Productivity, Congress Emphasises Land Rights and Tea Gardens

As Assam prepares for Assembly elections on April 9, 2026, a high-stakes contest is unfolding between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Indian National Congress. With over 2.5 crore voters across 126 constituencies, including lakhs of first-time electors, the election is shaping up around issues including agriculture, rural livelihoods, jobs and welfare. While the BJP’s “Sankalp Patra” highlights continuity and infrastructure-led growth, the Congress’ “Raijor Istahar” promises structural reforms and social guarantees. In their manifesto, both the BJP and Congress presented distinct approaches to revive the farm sector and strengthen rural livelihoods.

Agriculture

The BJP manifesto places strong emphasis on agricultural modernisation and income enhancement. It promises to expand irrigation coverage to 27 lakh hectares, supported by a Rs 3,000 crore Krishi Gati Shakti Plan aimed at improving storage, logistics and processing infrastructure. The party has committed to continuing Minimum Support Price (MSP) support for key crops like paddy, maize and mustard, alongside universal crop insurance and expanded access to Kisan Credit Cards.

In contrast, the Congress manifesto focuses on land rights, institutional reforms and grassroots rural development. It promises land ownership security for indigenous communities, clean-up of land records and redistribution in case of irregularities. The party has also prioritised flood control, a major concern affecting agriculture, and proposed climate-resilient farming systems.

The BJP has also outlined plans to strengthen allied agricultural sectors such as dairy, fisheries, horticulture and sericulture. It aims to double milk production and significantly boost fish output, while supporting small tea growers through better pricing and GI tagging. Congress, on the other hand, has placed special focus on tea garden workers, promising better wages, improved living conditions, and access to basic services like education, roads and electricity.

Rural development 

Rural development remains a common priority. The BJP has proposed “vibrant villages” with improved connectivity, housing and welfare schemes, alongside subsidised food and expanded rural infrastructure. Congress has countered with targeted welfare measures, including rehabilitation of displaced communities and focused support for vulnerable rural populations.

Employment

On employment, the BJP has promised 2 lakh government jobs and large-scale support for entrepreneurship, particularly in agriculture-linked industries and MSMEs. Its vision includes developing Assam as an economic hub with Rs 5 lakh crore investment in infrastructure. Congress, meanwhile, has proposed filling vacancies within 100 days, supporting small businesses and reviving traditional industries like paper and sugar mills to generate local employment.

Social welfare 

Social welfare and women-centric schemes also feature prominently. The BJP plans to expand the Orunodoi scheme, increase financial assistance to women and promote entrepreneurship through initiatives like Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan. Congress has promised direct cash transfers to women, Rs 50,000 support for female entrepreneurs and enhanced welfare benefits for widows and senior citizens.

Healthcare

In healthcare, the BJP has focused on expanding coverage under Ayushman Bharat and improving medical infrastructure, including district-level institutions. Congress has proposed a more expansive model, offering Rs 25 lakh health insurance per family, along with universal healthcare access and a “Family Doctor” programme.

Infrastructure 

Infrastructure development is another major differentiator. The BJP has proposed massive investments in roads, railways, waterways and flood control under its Rs 5 lakh crore development plan, including making Assam flood-free with Rs 18,000 crore investment. Congress has emphasised sustainable infrastructure with climate resilience and scientific river management.