Abstract

The policy brief discusses the impact of the pandemic on households in Assam, focusing on economic distress and responses to mitigate it. The brief is based on a survey of 484 households in rural and peri-urban areas across five districts.

Key findings from the brief include:
1. Vulnerability: The state of Assam was found to be particularly vulnerable due to its history of internal disturbances, floods, and ethnic violence, which was exacerbated by the pandemic. The survey sample included a mix of religious and social groups, including Muslims, Christians, Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribes, and indigenous Adivasi communities.
2. Employment: Most of the people surveyed were employed in agriculture and tea estates, and a large number of women (70%) were engaged in occupations outside the household.
3. Ration and Food Access: Access to ration and food services in Assam was relatively good, with 85% of families reporting they received additional ration and 83% saying that Anganwadi centres distributed food.
4. Cash Transfers: Cash transfers were not as widely received, with only 38% of families reporting receiving cash under the Jan-Dhan Yojana, 30% under the Ujjwala Yojana, and 7% under the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana . Overall, 64% of families reported receiving some sort of cash transfer.
5. Education: The Assam government launched a mobile-based learning initiative called ‘BishwaVidhya Assam’. The brief also notes the importance of low-cost distance learning methods such as radio, TV, SMS and printed material to reach girls equitably. The brief calls for a strong child protection safety net to safeguard girls from child marriage, child labour or abuse.

In summary, the policy brief highlights that while Assam had relatively good access to ration and food services during the pandemic, cash transfers were less effective. It also emphasises the need for continued focus on education and child protection.

Ghatak, N., Yareseeme, A. S., Jha, J. (2022) Gendered impact of COVID-19 on education of school-aged children in Assam.