Guwahati: Assam Industry Minister Bimal Borah has stated the government's vision is to utilise Assam's natural and human resources, coupled with its strategic geographical location, to make it an industrial and economic powerhouse of the Northeast and beyond while attending the Northeast Business Conclave 2.0, which took place in Guwahati.
Speaking at the gathering of top industrial leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, Borah stressed that the conclave is not an event—it is a platform for innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.
"Those transformative initiatives under this policy have given Assam a push from a land of promise to a fast-growing centre of varied opportunities across sectors," said Borah, reaffirming the state's increasing significance in India's regional and global trade policy.
Borah declared there are investment deals totalling almost Rs. 50,000 crore, including Tata Group's semiconductor production facility at Jagiroad, which is making Assam a soon-to-emerge hub of advanced electronics and semiconductor technology in the area.
One of the main takeaways was the just-concluded Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit, which Borah described as "one of the largest investment and infrastructure summits Northeast India has ever seen." The summit exceeded expectations, attracting investment commitments of Rs. 5,18,295 crore in infrastructure, manufacturing, electronics and facilities.
Major conglomerates such as Reliance, Tata, Adani, JSW, and Patanjali have promised investments, gesturing strong industry sureness in Assam’s business potential.
“These investments will drive industrialisation, generate direct and indirect employment, and promote entrepreneurship, strengthening Assam’s place on the national and international investment map,” the minister said.
In line with the requirements of having a highly qualified workforce, Assam is investing in human capital in institutions such as Assam Skill University and various vocational training programs so that local talent is prepared to address the stresses of the industry.
To address logistical challenges, Borah announced ongoing investments of over Rs. 1,04,900 crore in connectivity infrastructure—including roads, railways, airways, and waterways—which will not only enhance trade and industrial access but also position Assam as a critical trade hub for Southeast Asia.
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He further highlighted Assam’s ambitions to become instrumental in India's USD 1 trillion digital economy target by 2030. The Assam Electronic System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) Policy 2025 offers incentives, infrastructure, and policy support to attract investments in digital industries and advanced manufacturing.
"Assam is not only a part of India's Make in India and Digital dreams—it is poised to spearhead as a hub for electronics and digital innovation in the Northeast," added Borah.
In line with its strategic trade goals, Assam is enhancing trade ties with neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Myanmar, and ASEAN nations, boosted by border infrastructure upgrades and progressive trade policies. Focus areas include organic products, textiles, handicrafts, and processed food exports, aimed at positioning Assam as a trade hub of the region.
Noting Business North East’s role as Assam’s only dedicated business media platform, Borah lauded its efforts in driving economic awareness and delivering real-time industry insights and policy updates.
"BNE has been instrumental in empowering investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers and fostering a flourishing business community in Assam," said Borah.
He also called upon investors and industry stakeholders to participate in Assam's growth trajectory. “With progressive policies, strong leadership, and a thriving business environment, Assam today is not just an investment destination but a land of unlimited opportunities. I invite everyone to be part of Assam’s growth story,” said the minister.
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“Huge numbers of investors have joined and they committed more than 5 lakh crores for various sectors. This kind of conclave may encourage our entrepreneurs and investors to promote Assam as a good investment destination,” said Borah.
“To encourage our young students through skilling, we have lots of projects. We have skill industries under construction at Mangaldoi. Also, good institutions are available for that. By skilling, they definitely get more strength to build their future," he responded when asked about the steps taken for skill development.
We provide lots of schemes like CMAAA.2.0. Lakhpati Didi so that they can get a chance from the government to increase their business,” said Borah while speaking about women empowerment during the event on March 8, which also marks International Women's Day.
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