Guwahati, Assam: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has voiced significant concern over persistent land acquisition issues, which he asserts are severely impeding developmental projects worth a staggering ₹1 lakh crore across Assam.
Speaking at a press conference commemorating 11 years of the Narendra Modi-led government, Sarma underscored that the scarcity of available land is the primary bottleneck preventing these crucial projects from taking off. He emphasised the critical need to foster public understanding regarding the long-term advantages of industrial development, stressing that such initiatives are key to unlocking substantial employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
Sarma highlighted the profound infrastructural transformations witnessed in the Northeast since 2014, specifically pointing to marked improvements in road and railway connectivity, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh. “We have the best roads in Arunachal Pradesh and train connectivity is being improved,” he stated, showcasing the accelerated development push in the region. He reiterated that a significant shift in public mindset towards embracing industrial investment is imperative for the Northeast to realise its full developmental potential.
Drawing parallels, the Chief Minister cited the Amaravati township project as an exemplary model where long-term collective benefits superseded immediate personal impacts. “Here, I am fighting for 500 bighas of land. People are affected but they are prioritising benefits,” he observed. Sarma also pointed out how infrastructure expansions, such as the aerocity project in Guwahati, have the potential to significantly boost employment, envisioning a jump from 10,000 to 25,000 jobs.
Sarma further revealed the keen interest from industrial giants like Tata, Adani, and Ambani in investing in Assam, while also mentioning the potential for increased investment from Japan, contingent on managing the perception of land-related agitations. “Tata, Adani, Ambani, all are ready to come. More investment from Japan can come, if I allow it,” he explained, painting a picture of vast untapped investment potential.
Reflecting on historical decisions, Sarma brought up the example of the Nano manufacturing plant, which was initially slated for West Bengal but eventually relocated to Gujarat. “Modi ji took the Nano plant to Gujarat and since then, dramatic changes happened… I hope people will understand and we can get work done,” he remarked, underscoring the transformative power of effective land acquisition and investment on regional development.
The Chief Minister also lauded Prime Minister Modi’s unwavering dedication to Assam, noting his frequent visits to the state. “No prime minister had said ‘A for Assam’… Modi ji has a vision for our state and we will work to realise it,” Sarma affirmed, reiterating the central government’s steadfast commitment to fulfilling Assam’s developmental aspirations by overcoming the existing land acquisition challenges.
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