Assam Cabinet Approves Stamp Duty Waiver for SHG Loans Up to ₹10 Lakh

The Assam government has announced a stamp duty waiver on loans of up to ₹10 lakh for members of self-help groups (SHGs), aiming to reduce the financial burden on rural borrowers and support livelihood and enterprise activities.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the state Cabinet approved the waiver on individual loan documents executed by SHG members under the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission. The benefit will apply to loans of up to ₹10 lakh secured for livelihood and enterprise purposes from scheduled commercial banks, regional rural banks, cooperative banks and other financial institutions regulated by the Reserve Bank of India.

The decision is expected to make formal credit more accessible to SHG members by lowering the upfront costs associated with loan documentation. SHGs play an important role in promoting rural livelihoods, particularly by helping members access credit for small businesses and income-generating activities.

The Cabinet also approved several other measures, including compulsory registration of certain property-related agreements and instruments, and the Assam Ayurvedic Health Services Rules, 2026, which will govern recruitment and service conditions for Ayurvedic Medical Officers.

In addition, changes to medical college admission rules will provide one additional seat each for the Moran, Matak, Koch Rajbongshi, Tai Ahom and Chutia communities. Two MBBS seats will also be reserved for domiciled orphan candidates, while eligible permanent residents of Assam who have studied outside the state will be allowed to seek admission under the state quota.