Assam Unveils ₹1 Lakh Crore Infrastructure Plan to Attract Global Investors
Assam is making bold strides to position itself as a key player in India’s growing economy, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiling a comprehensive ₹1 lakh crore infrastructure development plan aimed at accelerating industrialisation and inviting global investors. During a high-profile gathering with diplomats from 36 countries, including representatives from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and several European nations, Sarma shared the state’s ambitious development plans.
The proposed infrastructure projects include the construction of three new bridges across the Brahmaputra River, which is expected to significantly improve connectivity within Assam and neighbouring regions. Furthermore, a satellite city near Guwahati, to be built in collaboration with Singapore, marks a major milestone in Assam’s vision to modernise urban spaces. Additionally, the state is preparing to establish a new railway connection linking Guwahati to Gelephu, Bhutan, facilitating trade and connectivity between the two nations. Sarma highlighted the state’s impressive 12.5% growth rate and revealed plans to create a ₹25,000 crore corpus fund to accelerate industrialisation efforts. The fund is designed to support various sectors, including logistics, tourism, and food processing, ensuring that the state has the resources it needs to meet its ambitious goals. “Assam has the requisite skill and ability to deliver,” Sarma confidently told the gathering, which included industry leaders and international diplomats.
In a forward-thinking move, the Assam government is also making strides towards green energy adoption. New industrial projects, including the upcoming Tata semiconductor plant at Jagiroad, will be required to use renewable energy sources, aligning with the government’s commitment to sustainability. This push for green energy is expected to position Assam as a leader in environmentally conscious industrial development in India. The state’s strategic location as a gateway to the Bay of Bengal (BBN) and ASEAN countries offers significant opportunities in sectors such as tourism, fragrances, flavours, food and beverages, and logistics. These sectors are expected to thrive with increased investment, both domestically and internationally. Assam is also preparing to host the Advantage Assam Summit 2.0 in February, an event that aims to attract more investment and showcase the state’s rich potential. In a unique cultural celebration, 8,000 dancers will perform the traditional Jhumur dance a day before the summit, offering a glimpse into Assam’s cultural vibrancy.
The presence of Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal at the investors’ roundtable signifies the central government’s backing of Assam’s development initiatives. The state’s focus on educational infrastructure, including prestigious institutions such as IIT, AIIMS, and IIM, underscores its commitment to providing the necessary skills and resources to support economic growth. To further solidify its place as an emerging investment hub, Assam is also investing in workforce development through initiatives such as the North East Skill Centre’s programme, which aims to train 10,000 youths. This emphasis on human capital development ensures that Assam has a skilled workforce ready to take on new opportunities in an evolving economy. As Assam embarks on this ambitious journey, the state’s blend of rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and forward-thinking infrastructure plans are poised to make it a prominent destination for global investors in the years to come.
