Guwahati: At the threshold of an economic revolution expected to transform Northeast India, Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation Limited (NIDCL) Chairman Kvulo Lorin has urged closer economic and business cooperation among Nagaland, Assam, and other Northeastern states, pointing out that regional coordination and a global entrepreneurial approach are key to unleashing the region's huge untapped potential.
In a clarion call for regional unity and global ambition, Kvulo Lorin, Chairman of Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation Limited (NIDCL), urged Northeast India’s entrepreneurs to move beyond local boundaries and embrace collaborative growth. Speaking at the Northeast Business Conclave 2.0 on March 8, 2025 in Guwahati, Lorin stressed the need for a unified regional vision to unlock the vast potential of Northeast India.
“Today, more than ever, we need to leverage our collective experiences to propel the region forward. It is a privilege to be among so many eminent leaders who understand the pulse of Northeast India,” remarked Lorin, addressing a packed house of industry leaders and policymakers.
Highlighting the interdependence of Northeastern states, Lorin emphasised that Assam's growth is pivotal to the prosperity of the entire region.
"If Northeast India is to develop, Assam must be robust. If Assam prospers, the surrounding states and even neighbouring nations will prosper. It is not a competition, but complementing strengths and progressing as one region," stated Lorin categorically.
Referring to discussions with Dr. Lakshmanan S., ex-Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Lorin again underlined the necessity of states looking at distinctive strengths rather than competition that is detrimental to health.
Addressing structural challenges, Lorin pointed out that entrepreneurs in the region are often confined to local markets, limiting their growth potential.
“Our youth are brimming with passion but limited by a local mindset. We must think beyond our borders — targeting Southeast Asia, Mainland India, and global markets,” said Lorin.
“We must move away from a culture of blaming the government and embrace responsibility. Governments are for policymaking, but businesses must be driven by us — the entrepreneurs,” stated Lorin while emphasising the need for accountability.
Quoting Henry Ford, Lorin called for regional collaboration to create global brands that can represent Northeast India. “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success. It's time we identified our own IKEA, Nestlé, Lego — brands that can represent Northeast India on the global stage,” said Lorin while emphasising such innovation must come from within the business community.
“It’s time we identified our own IKEA, our own Nestlé, our own Lego — brands that can represent Northeast India on the global stage. But this innovation must come from us, not just the government,” said Lorin, challenging entrepreneurs to think bigger and innovate.
Inviting the business community to explore opportunities in Nagaland, Lorin highlighted a 125-acre Special Economic Zone (SEZ) dedicated to export-oriented industries.
“We have a 125-acre Special Economic Zone (SEZ) focused on export-oriented industries. I invite all of you to visit Nagaland — to explore opportunities, network, and invest. And if you wish to experience the best of Nagaland’s culture, the Hornbill Festival from December 1 to 10 is the perfect time to connect and collaborate,” added Lorin.
Lorin calls upon the states to think beyond narrow territorial interests and to leverage Assam’s investment momentum as a catalyst for wider regional growth, he highlights a pragmatic pathway to economic integration and industrial collaboration.
At a time when Assam is leading with record-breaking investment inflows, Lorin pushes for regional synergy, brand-building and market expansion beyond local confines that presents a clear blueprint for sustainable growth. The challenge now lies in whether Northeast's business and political leadership will act on this vision — to create a united, globally competitive regional economy — or continue to operate in fragmented silos.
As Lorin rightly points out, the future of Northeast India’s economy will depend on its ability to collaborate, innovate, and scale beyond borders — both internal and external.
FIRST Business Portal addressing the potential of business capability of North East Region.
