Guwahati: With Assam positioning itself as a growing hub for investments and regional connectivity, the state is setting its sights on bolstering ties with neighbouring Bhutan. In light of recent developments, including establishing an integrated checkpost to facilitate seamless cross-border travel, the collaboration between Assam and Bhutan is steady to unlock new opportunities in tourism, trade and infrastructure development.
Chief Secretary of Assam, Ravi Kota, shed light on the evolving relationship between the Northeastern region and Bhutan during an exclusive interview with Pankhi Sarma for Business North East (BNE) at the Bhutan Tourism Roadshow on December 9. Highlighting Bhutan’s 'Mindful City' initiative and Assam’s focus on border infrastructure development, he shared the state's plans to create a unified tourism circuit, fostering international trade and encouraging investments that align with sustainable growth.
Here are the excerpts from the interview with Ravi Kota, where he elaborates on the future of Assam-Bhutan relations and the mutual opportunities that lie ahead.
BNE: Bhutan is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for global tourism. Can you tell us how the Northeastern region, particularly Assam, can strengthen its relationship with Bhutan?
Ravi Kota: Bhutan and the Northeastern region, especially Assam, share a deep geographical and cultural connection that makes this collaboration natural. Historically, there were restrictions on third-country nationals travelling between eastern Bhutan and Assam. For instance, tourists coming to Assam could not travel directly to Bhutan via our side. Instead, they were required to go all the way to Phuentsholing, a logistical challenge that deterred many travellers.
However, with the establishment of the new integrated checkpost, these barriers have been removed. Third-country nationals, especially international tourists, can easily enter eastern Bhutan from Assam and vice versa. This development has unlocked tremendous potential for creating a unique international tourism circuit, including Bhutan and Northeast India.
Additionally, Bhutan and the Northeastern states share similar ecological systems, including biospheres, wildlife, and adventure tourism opportunities. Tourism operators in Assam and Bhutan can now work together to create tailor-made itineraries for travellers, showcasing the unique offerings of both regions, enhancing the tourism experience and bringing global attention to this part of the world.
BNE: An exciting development indeed. With the integrated checkpost, connectivity becomes even more critical. Could you elaborate on the steps taken to improve connectivity between Assam and Bhutan?
Ravi Kota: Connectivity is indeed the backbone of this collaboration. Bhutan’s presentation at the roadshow highlighted places that remain largely unexplored, some of the hidden gems in its eastern region. Similarly, Assam and the rest of Northeast India are home to pristine landscapes that can attract tourists who prefer serene, green, and eco-friendly destinations.
On the infrastructure front, several projects are in progress. The proposed railway line connecting Assam to Bhutan is a key development that significantly enhances accessibility. Additionally, the Upgrade of road infrastructure and border areas is receiving special attention for connectivity improvements. The state and centre are working closely to boost border infrastructure, ensuring smoother transit for goods and people. These efforts aim to boost tourism and facilitate cultural exchanges and trade between Assam and Bhutan.
BNE: You mentioned trade. With the improvements in border infrastructure, do you see new opportunities for border trade between Assam and Bhutan?
Ravi Kota: Absolutely. The improved border infrastructure is paving the way for robust trade relations between Assam and Bhutan. One notable initiative is Bhutan’s 'Mindful City' project at Gelepfu. This unique concept opens up significant investment opportunities for Indian investors, particularly those from Assam. The 'Mindful City' will likely become a hub for innovative ideas and sustainable practices, serving as a model for similar initiatives in the Northeastern region. Entrepreneurs and investors can explore avenues in sectors such as sustainable urban development, eco-tourism and renewable energy.
Moreover, border trade has the potential to expand beyond traditional goods to include services and joint ventures, further strengthening economic ties between Assam and Bhutan.
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BNE: Assam will host a major investment summit in February Can you share the objectives of this event and what we can expect?
Ravi Kota: The Global Investor Summit in February is a flagship event to attract domestic and international investors to Assam. The focus areas for this summit include infrastructure and investment, both of which are critical for the state’s growth.
We are not just looking at government-led infrastructure development but also encouraging private-sector participation. For example, the semiconductor plant recently established in Assam is a prime example of how such investments can create opportunities. Around this plant, we expect private investors to set up logistics parks, supply chain ecosystems, and other supporting infrastructure.
Moreover, the Government of India is committed to enhancing the region’s connectivity - upgrading airports and developing waterways. Both offer significant opportunities for private investment.
At the summit, we will present these projects and invite investors from across the globe to be a part of Assam’s growth story. We anticipate a large turnout and substantial investments in logistics, manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy sectors. This summit will mark a turning point for Assam’s economic trajectory.
BNE: With so many exciting developments, where do you see Assam’s collaboration with Bhutan heading in the long term?
Ravi Kota: Assam and Bhutan share geographical proximity and unique synergy about culture, ecology, and economic potential. Removing travel restrictions, improving connectivity, and focusing on joint initiatives like tourism circuits and trade hubs will ensure the strength of this collaboration over time.
We aim to position Assam and the Northeastern region as a gateway to Southeast Asia, and Bhutan serves as a vital component of this vision. Together, we can attract global attention, investments, and tourists, creating a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.
As Assam takes proactive steps toward strengthening its role as a gateway to Southeast Asia, this partnership with Bhutan could redefine the region’s tourism and business landscape, according to the Assam Chief Secretary.
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