Guwahati, Aug. 17 -- The Assam government will create a dedicated Department of Youth Welfare and Empowerment to bring various youth-focused programmes and services under a single administrative framework.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the decision at a press conference at Lok Sewa Bhawan on Monday, saying the proposed department would focus on the welfare, development and empowerment of the state's youth.

"There was no department in the Assam government exclusively for the welfare of youth. We have taken a decision to create a new Department of Youth Welfare and Empowerment," Sarma said.

The department will bring together programmes and services currently managed by different agencies and government departments, includi...