Guwahati, Jan 16 (NationPress) The youth of Assam can serve as a catalyst for industrialisation, creating employment opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship if backed by consistent policy support, involvement from the industry, and skill enhancement, experts remarked on Friday.

This insight was shared during a webinar titled 'Assam's Youth and Viksit Bharat 2047: Pathways to Industrialisation, Employment and Entrepreneurship', which was held in association with the National Service Scheme (NSS) Cell of Gauhati University.

With more than one-third of Assam's population falling within the 15–34 age bracket, the state possesses a significant demographic advantage that can be harnessed for sustained economic development, according to the speakers.

An official announcement indicated that the discussion was in line with the national vision for youth-driven development, as articulated during the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the pivotal role of Assam's youth in the state’s economic evolution over the next twenty years.

During the webinar, Pranjit Tamuli, Senior Executive Officer at the Indian Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the necessity for enduring industry engagement.

"Long-term commitment from industries can lead to local job creation and bolster Assam's economy," he stated.

Dr. Ranjan K. Kakati from the NSS Cell, Gauhati University, stressed that youth development should extend beyond theoretical education.

Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP), he remarked, "Its focus on skill enhancement, hands-on learning, and real-world exposure will help close the gap between education and job readiness."

Entrepreneurship was identified as a crucial engine for job creation, especially in sectors leveraging local advantages. Priyanka D Patwari, a textile entrepreneur from Guwahati, asserted that with an appropriate ecosystem, Assam's youth can establish sustainable businesses that create local jobs.

The webinar facilitated a productive dialogue among the youth, academic institutions, industry representatives, and civil society, reinforcing the essential role of industries as long-term collaborators in Assam's developmental trajectory.

Speakers also acknowledged various companies that are contributing to youth empowerment through initiatives such as Digital Classrooms in Sarupathar, mental health awareness programs in colleges, support for local drama festivals, and promotion of sports through the organization of football and cricket events, as well as backing for platforms like the BWF World Junior Badminton Championship, thereby aligning with the state’s broader growth objectives.