North East Business Conclave 2.0 a learning experience for the entrepreneurs, says Biswajit Daimary

The North East Business Conclave 2.0 held in Guwahati on March 8 addressed a range of industry issues and was attended by industry leaders, experts and entrepreneurs. Chief guest Biswajit Daimary, Speaker of Assam legislative assembly 
spoke about the massive venture potential, role of local businesspersons in economic growth, and the meaning of business education in Assam.

In this exclusive interview with Business North East (BNE), Biswajit Daimary deliberates the meaning of the conclave, the evolving business scenerio of Assam, Indo-Bhutan relations, and how the state can retain its  talent by generating ample fiscal scope. Here are some excerpts.

BNE: How did you feel about attending the North East Business Conclave 2.0?

Biswajit Daimary: It is truly praiseworthy to see Business North East establishing such a conclave. Assam just hosted Advantage Assam 2.0, which attracted a large number of investors, business leaders, and industrialists. They echoed on the enormous investment chances in Assam, and a total investment of more than Rs. 5 lakh crores has been proposed. For Assam, this is an important landmark.

This conclave, which has brought together knowledgeable professionals and industry veterans, will be extremely helpful for entrepreneurs. It will provide them with insights into business plans and investment chances, eventually allowing them to contribute in the economic alteration of the state. Such events not only encourage entrepreneurship but also provide a platform for direct interaction between investors and local trades. I sincerely appreciate the efforts of Business North East in organizing this conclave and hope it achieves its objective of fostering business growth in the region.

BNE: What are your thoughts on Business North East?
Biswajit Daimary: Assam has usually been an agrarian economy, but the subtleties are altering. Business and trade must be fortified, as sole need on agriculture is not maintainable in the long run. It is vital to teach people about business basics—how to start a business, what chances exist, and how they can utilize local resources efficiently.

One of the key aspects is sympathetic market demand—not just within Assam but also outside the state. We have an educated youth population, but business success requires skill growth. Beyond just attending conclaves, we must focus on business education for common people. A structured method to imparting entrepreneurial skills can alter the economy.

BNE: Bhutan was a participant at the conclave. Could you share your thoughts on Indo-Bhutan relations, particularly in trade?

Biswajit Daimary: Assam and Bhutan share a historic relationship, dating back over a hundred years, particularly with societies along the northern bank of the Brahmaputra. Previously, trade was carried out through barter systems. For example, Assam produced eri silk, and Bhutan used to procure cocoons from us to weave their traditional garments. Similarly, Bhutanese traders brought in fish and fruits while sourcing grains from Assam. They would stay here for six months and return before the monsoons.

However, political events such as the Assam Agitation (Assam Andolan) disrupted these age-old trade relations. Despite being a small country with a population less than Assam’s, Bhutan has successfully expanded its trade globally. If Bhutan can achieve such economic success, Assam has even greater possible. We must revive deliberations on consolidation of trade ties and incorporate business studies in academic curriculums to educate future peers about these potentials.

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BNE: Many students and professionals from Assam move outside the state for better career prospects. Do you think Advantage Assam 2.0 will encourage them to return?

Biswajit Daimary: Definitely. Many talented individuals from Assam move to the USA, UK, and Australia for better career opportunities due to limited local prospects. However, with Advantage Assam 2.0 attracting large-scale investments, new industries and businesses will emerge, creating abundant opportunities for our youth.

If we can offer similar career prospects within Assam—be it in entrepreneurship, corporate jobs, or research—many professionals will prefer returning home rather than staying abroad. The government and private sector must collaborate to facilitate investments in sectors that appeal to the youth, ensuring that talent retention becomes a reality.