By Staff Correspondent
The northeastern state of Assam is poised for a transformational leap as it gears up for the much-anticipated *Advantage Assam 2.0 – Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025*, scheduled to take place on February 25-26 in Guwahati. With a vision to position Assam as a global investment hub, the Assam Government, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to attract investors, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the globe. Among the many initiatives in the run-up to the Summit, the most ambitious and strategic is Assam’s ongoing negotiations with the Defence Ministry to establish a defence corridor in the region—an initiative that promises to usher in unprecedented industrial growth and bolster India’s national security.
A Defence Corridor in Assam: A Strategic and Economic Masterstroke
Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has made a compelling case for the creation of a defence corridor extending from Guwahati to Nagaon. This bold proposal is rooted in Assam’s strategic location in the Northeast, a region that shares borders with several countries, including China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. With more than half of India’s defence ammunition already stationed in the Northeast, the establishment of a local defence manufacturing hub is not only logical but also critical. Dr. Sarma emphasized, “Where there is demand, there should also be local supply,” underscoring the need for Assam to become a key player in India’s defence production and supply chain.
The proposed corridor would enhance India’s defence preparedness, particularly in sensitive areas like the Siliguri Corridor (the “Chicken Neck” connecting the Northeast to the rest of India), and catalyze industrial growth in Assam. By creating facilities for manufacturing and servicing military equipment, tanks, and ordnance, the corridor would attract significant investments, generate employment, and position Assam as a vital contributor to India’s defence ecosystem. If successful, Assam would become the third state in India to host a defence corridor, following Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Advantage Assam 2.0: A Gateway to Growth and Global Partnerships
The *Advantage Assam 2.0* Summit is not just a showcase of Assam’s economic potential but a testament to its rapid transformation into a leading investment destination. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to inaugurate the event and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck expected to attend, the Summit is already generating global buzz. The Assam Government has extended invitations to diplomats, ambassadors, and industry leaders from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, European, and other nations, urging them to explore Assam’s vast opportunities in sectors such as infrastructure, green energy, tourism, agriculture, and defence manufacturing.
In his keynote address to diplomats and industry leaders, Dr. Sarma highlighted Assam’s robust growth trajectory, with the state’s economy growing at an impressive rate of 12.5%. He also outlined the government’s ambitious infrastructure projects, including three new bridges over the Brahmaputra, a satellite city near Guwahati (developed in collaboration with Singapore), and a railway line connecting Guwahati to Gelephu in Bhutan. These initiatives reflect Assam’s commitment to building world-class infrastructure that facilitates trade, tourism, and industrial development.
A Green and Sustainable Vision for Assam
Sustainability lies at the heart of Assam’s development agenda. Dr. Sarma emphasized the state’s focus on clean and green energy, urging industries to adopt renewable energy sources. Notably, the Tata semiconductor plant at Jagiroad, which will produce 48 million chips per day, is set to be powered by green energy. This aligns with Assam’s broader vision of becoming a leader in renewable energy and green industries.
The government’s proactive approach extends to skill development, with the North East Skill Centre training 10,000 youths to meet the demands of emerging industries. Additionally, a massive Rs. 25,000 crore production-linked incentive fund has been announced to accelerate industrialization and attract large-scale investments.
Assam: A Land of Opportunity and Vibrancy
Assam’s appeal as an investment destination goes beyond its economic potential. The state is rich in natural resources, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, making it a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Conservation success stories from Kaziranga and Manas National Parks highlight Assam’s commitment to preserving its ecological treasures while pursuing development.
To showcase its cultural vibrancy, the government has planned a spectacular performance of Jhumur dance by 8,000 dancers on February 24, a day before the Summit. This grand event, to be attended by the Prime Minister and other dignitaries, aims to highlight Assam’s youthful energy and rich traditions.
National and Global Endorsements for Assam’s Vision
The run-up to the Summit has seen enthusiastic endorsements from key stakeholders. Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, praised Assam’s potential in sectors like agriculture, sericulture, aquaculture, and food processing. He also suggested innovative ideas, such as setting up helipads near national parks to attract high-end tourists. Goyal commended Dr. Sarma’s visionary leadership, stating, “The leader defines the team, and if the team is willing to push things aggressively, nothing can stop them from achieving any feat.”
Assam’s Chief Secretary, Dr. Ravi Kota, further reinforced the state’s strengths, citing its strategic location as a gateway to ASEAN and BIMSTEC countries, robust connectivity, skilled workforce, and industry-friendly policies. These factors, combined with Assam’s peaceful environment and ease of doing business, make it an ideal destination for investors.
A Bright Future Beckons
As the countdown to *Advantage Assam 2.0* begins, the state stands at the cusp of a new era of growth and prosperity. The proposed defence corridor, coupled with massive infrastructure investments and a focus on green energy, positions Assam as a leader in India’s economic and strategic landscape. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant economy, and forward-looking policies, Assam is not just inviting investments—it is inviting the world to be part of its remarkable growth story.
The Summit promises to be a landmark event, showcasing Assam’s transformation into a global investment hub and a beacon of progress for the entire Northeast. As Dr. Sarma aptly put it, “Come and become partners in Assam’s growth story.” The world is watching, and Assam is ready to shine.
