Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced an ambitious vision for the state’s development and industrialization while seeking international investment during a high-profile meeting with diplomats from 36 countries.
The event brought together ambassadors and high commissioners from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and European nations to explore Assam’s growing potential as an economic hub.
The state government unveiled infrastructure projects worth Rs 1 lakh crore, including plans for three new bridges across the Brahmaputra River and the creation of a satellite city near Guwahati in collaboration with Singapore. A new railway link between Guwahati and Gelephu, Bhutan, is also on the horizon, signaling strengthened regional connectivity.
Citing Assam’s impressive 12.5% growth rate, Sarma revealed a Rs 25,000 crore corpus fund to accelerate industrialization in the state. “Assam has the requisite skill and ability to deliver,” the Chief Minister said, addressing a gathering that included international diplomats and industry leaders.
The state is also pushing for green energy adoption, with new industries, including the Tata semiconductor plant at Jagiroad, mandated to use renewable power sources. Additionally, discussions are in progress with the Ministry of Defence to establish a defence corridor between Guwahati and Nagaon, further diversifying the state’s economic opportunities.
Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota underscored the state’s strategic location as a gateway to BBN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal) and ASEAN countries, emphasizing potential investments in tourism, fragrance and flavours, food and beverages, and logistics. These sectors, coupled with the state’s proximity to Southeast Asia, position Assam as a natural trade and investment hub.
The upcoming Advantage Assam Summit 2.0, scheduled for February, aims to attract global investors. In a unique cultural showcase, 8,000 dancers will perform the traditional Jhumur dance a day before the summit, reflecting the state’s rich heritage.
Union Minister for Commerce and Industries Piyush Goyal participated in an investors’ roundtable at the event, reinforcing central government support for Assam’s development agenda. The state’s educational infrastructure, including institutions like IIT, AIIMS, and IIM, has drawn attention, with additional projects underway to bolster its academic ecosystem.
Highlighting Assam’s focus on workforce development, the North East Skill Centre plans to train 10,000 youths to meet industry demands. With a comprehensive roadmap and a blend of infrastructure, green energy, and cultural initiatives, Assam is positioning itself as a premier investment destination in India’s northeast.