Chief Minister Sarma Announces Rs 4.5 Lakh Crore Investments from Advantage Assam

Guwahati, Feb 26 (NationPress) The industrial scene in Assam is on the brink of a remarkable transformation following the tremendous success of the investment summit—Advantage Assam 2.0, which has drawn in investments totaling approximately Rs 4.5 lakh crore. This declaration was made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, indicating a major advancement in the state's industrial growth.

“Areas such as hydrocarbons, our strong suit, along with mines and minerals, have garnered the highest investments. Our aim is to turn Assam into a developed industrial state similar to its status in 1947. Assam was the first industrial state in India,” Sarma informed reporters here.

The summit's success underscores Assam's increasing potential as an investment destination.

Thanks to its rich natural resources, strategic location, and forward-looking policies, the state has been consistently striving to position itself as a pivotal player in India's industrial sector.

This substantial investment influx is anticipated to enhance job opportunities, infrastructure growth, and overall economic advancement in the area.

Reflecting on the historical significance of Assam, the Chief Minister highlighted the state's former industrial splendor.

“I prefer not to compare with any other state or West Bengal; circumstances differ. West Bengal has not faced partitions since the country’s division, while Assam has undergone partition at least five times after Independence,” he stated.

This remark emphasizes the challenges faced by Assam over the years, while also showcasing its resilience and commitment to reclaiming its industrial stature.

Industry analysts suggest that a renewed emphasis on hydrocarbons, mining, and minerals could enable Assam to rise as a powerhouse of industrial advancement.

With significant investments flowing in, infrastructure projects are expected to accelerate, drawing even more investors in the years to come.

As Assam embarks on this ambitious path, the government’s pledge to create a business-friendly atmosphere will be vital.

Measures such as streamlined regulatory frameworks, policy incentives, and infrastructure upgrades are likely to be pivotal in ensuring sustained industrial growth.

With Advantage Assam 2.0 paving the way for an industrial revival, the state is ready to reclaim its position as a prominent industrial center in India, heralding a new era of prosperity and progress, as the CM pointed out.

CM Sarma previously referred to the Advantage Assam investment summit as a milestone in Assam’s industrial evolution. He expressed that with the esteemed presence and support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Advantage Assam 2.0 will signify a new chapter of growth and opportunity.

On this occasion, on behalf of the people of Assam, he conveyed his heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister.

The Chief Minister mentioned that celebrating 200 years of Assam Tea signifies the industrial heritage of Assam. He noted that tea was the first major industry in the state, established in 1823.

Highlighting the rich history of Assam's industrialization, the Chief Minister stated that the state has been a trailblazer in India’s oil industry, with coal being discovered in Assam as early as 1847, further driving Assam’s industrial journey and laying the groundwork for its sustained economic progress.

Sarma mentioned that at the time of India’s independence, Assam was an economic leader, enriched with tea, natural resources, and hydrocarbon reserves, boasting a per capita income exceeding the national average by 4 percent. The Chief Minister noted that today, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Assam has experienced a historic transformation.

He remarked: “The Prime Minister’s dedication has catapulted Assam into a new era of rapid progress and renewed hope. Since 2014, over 2,324 km of National Highways have been built. The Indian Railways has completed gauge conversion of 600 km of meter gauge lines.

“Additionally, Assam is now a pivotal player in India’s aviation growth. The state's GDP has surged from $29 billion in 2013–14 to $68.7 billion in 2023–24, marking a growth of 12.4 percent.