Assam: Union Minister for the Development of the North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, announced the establishment of India’s second semiconductor manufacturing facility in Assam.
Spearheaded by the Tata Group, this ambitious project involves an investment of Rs 27,000 crore, signaling a significant milestone in transforming the industrial landscape of the Northeast.
Speaking on the occasion, Scindia highlighted the region’s rapid progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, attributing the development to enhanced infrastructure, reduced conflict, and a surge in investment. Initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Program and expansive infrastructure projects have been pivotal in reshaping the narrative around the Northeast, he noted.
Addressing ongoing challenges in Manipur, Scindia refuted claims that the unrest was a recent phenomenon, emphasizing its long-standing history. “Manipur is a situation that has been there for the last 25 to 40 years. So it’s not something that has been created by this government. We are talking to all factions and are trying to bring about an amicable solution,” he explained.
Scindia also highlighted strides made in reducing conflict across the region. Over the past decade, incidents of unrest have dropped by 80%, with 70% more insurgents integrated into mainstream society and a notable rise in peace agreements. “The Northeast has never been as peaceful as it is today,” he remarked, reflecting the government’s focus on stability and reconciliation.
On the infrastructure front, Scindia underscored key achievements, including the construction of over 16,000 km of national highways and a significant boost in railway expansion, which has grown from 6.5 km per month to 19 km per month. He also pointed to the addition of 17 airports since 2014, bringing the total to 26, and the development of 20 waterways for enhanced transportation, compared to just one a decade ago.
Looking ahead, Scindia announced plans for the Northeast Investor Summit, scheduled for March or April 2025. This summit follows a series of roadshows in cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai, which have already secured Rs 45,000 crore in investment commitments.
Scindia highlighted the region’s economic growth, estimated between 9.5% and 11% annually, as a vital contributor to India’s overall development. “The Northeast is no longer the last mile; it is the growth engine of India,” he stated, underlining the region’s transformation from a peripheral area to a key driver of national progress.
The announcement of the semiconductor facility is expected to catalyze further industrial and technological advancements in Assam, reinforcing the Northeast’s role as a hub of innovation and economic activity.
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