Detailed Notes
His popularity is not only based on political perception but is strongly supported by national survey data, governance performance indicators and grassroots welfare initiatives.
Survey Rankings and Approval Ratings
According to the India Today Mood of the Nation Poll published in August 2025, Himanta Biswa Sarma emerged as the best-performing Chief Minister among major Indian states. The survey showed:
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44.6 per cent of Assamese respondents expressed satisfaction with his governance, placing him at the top among states with more than 10 Lok Sabha seats.
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Another published edition of the same survey reported that 50.8 per cent of respondents in Assam expressed satisfaction with his performance.
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His approval ratings have consistently increased over time, rising from 48.6 per cent in February 2024 and 49.2 per cent in August 2023.
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He was also ranked as the most popular Chief Minister within his home state and the second most popular Chief Minister in the country.
In comparison, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren were at 41.9 per cent, followed by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel at 40.7 per cent. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath secured 40.4 per cent.
These consistent rankings in national surveys have significantly strengthened Sarma's position as the most popular modern-era Chief Minister of Assam.
Infrastructure Development Push
Under his leadership, Assam has witnessed major infrastructure expansion, including:
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Establishment of new medical colleges
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Construction of major bridges such as the Guwahati-North Guwahati bridge
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Development of flyovers and urban infrastructure
This infrastructure drive is viewed as a key contributor to accelerated economic growth and improved connectivity across the state.
Administrative Reforms and Decisive Governance
Himanta Biswa Sarma is widely known for bold and decisive administrative actions. Key reforms include:
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Clearing encroached forest lands
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Reforming recruitment processes to make them merit-based
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Strong action against drug trafficking networks
Supporters view these measures as firm governance steps that brought administrative discipline and stability.
Welfare Schemes and Grassroots Appeal
Several welfare schemes have expanded his support base among common citizens:
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Mission Basundhara for land rights settlement
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Orunodoi scheme providing financial assistance to families
These initiatives strengthened direct benefit outreach and increased grassroots popularity.
Educational Reform
A significant policy decision during his tenure was the conversion of government-funded madrasas into general schools. This reform was highly appreciated by his core voter base and projected as a move towards mainstream educational restructuring.
Leadership Style
Supporters describe him as a hands-on, fast-working and dynamic leader who focuses on quick decision-making and visible results. His governance style is often credited with bringing stability and accelerating development in Assam.
Historical Context
While Himanta Biswa Sarma currently leads in modern popularity rankings, Assam's political history includes other influential leaders:
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Tarun Gogoi played a crucial role in restoring peace and economic stability during his 15-year tenure from 2001 to 2016.
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Prafulla Kumar Mahanta rose to prominence during the Assam Agitation.
However, in the context of the present modern era and survey-based approval ratings, Himanta Biswa Sarma holds the highest popularity position.