ADVANTAGE ASSAM 2.0 IS A CATALYST FOR SOCIOECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION

Sh. Bimal Borah, Minister of Industries, Commerce, Public Enterprises and Cultural Affairs details how the state is poised to transition from its traditional strengths in hydrocarbons and tea to emerging sectors such as technology, manufacturing and agri-processing.

- By Ruhail Amin

What is the key economic vision driving Advantage Assam 2.0 and how do you see it shaping Assam’s industrial landscape in the next decade?

Advantage Assam is just a means to amplify to the world the fact that Assam has arrived. From our traditional sectors of Hydrocarbon and tea, we are diversifying into tech and manufacturing oriented sectors. With ongoing and upcoming mega projects worth nearly $12 billion, we are committed to transforming Assam into a modern infrastructure hub.

Currently, we have major projects underway, including new airport terminals in Guwahati, several strategic bridges over the Brahmaputra and integrated government complexes. Upcoming ventures like the Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link, Guwahati Ring Road and the Brahmaputra tunnel at Numaligarh will further enhance connectivity and foster economic growth. These projects, coupled with new medical colleges and educational institutions, are set to propel Assam into a new era of development and prosperity.

Given Assam’s role as the gateway to Southeast Asia, how is the government strengthening trade ties with neighbouring countries?