The Department of Public Enterprises was created by the Government of Assam vide Notification No. ABP 133/76/pt.1/4 on the 8th of July, 1976 of the Appointment Branch of the Appointment (B) Department. As per the notification, the new Department of Public Enterprises was to cover all the enterprises under Industries & Sericulture and Weaving Departments and also other Enterprises under other Departments. It was notified to work directly under the Chief Secretary.

An Important function of the Department of Public Enterprises is to supervise and control the commercial and management aspects of the various Public Enterprises.