Overview
- Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the first batch of licences is planned for February 2026 after receiving many applications now being examined.
- Approvals will be limited to original inhabitants from indigenous communities in designated vulnerable and remote locations, with selective issuance and leniency for eligible applicants.
- The programme follows a May cabinet decision to create a special licensing scheme for residents near international and inter-state borders, including the Bangladesh frontier.
- Sarma cited districts such as Dhubri, Nagaon, Morigaon, Barpeta, South Salmara-Mankachar and Goalpara as areas where indigenous minorities face security concerns.
- The rollout carries electoral significance as the announcement precedes state assembly polls expected in March–April 2026.