Guwahati, Jan 16 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Friday that the state is experiencing a rapidly expanding startup movement, fueled by targeted policy support, institutional assistance, and a robust focus on youth-driven innovation.

During his address, CM Sarma underscored significant milestones achieved under the Assam Startup initiative, revealing that 615 startups have been nurtured through the NEST incubation program since 2021, which has provided young innovators with essential mentoring, infrastructure, and funding opportunities.

He noted that this initiative has been pivotal in transforming innovative concepts into scalable businesses across various sectors.

The Chief Minister further mentioned the establishment of a Rs 200 crore Assam Venture Capital Fund, designed to offer vital financial support to promising startups during their initial and growth phases.

This fund aims to bridge the divide between innovation and investment, allowing local entrepreneurs to compete on a national scale without needing to relocate.

CM Sarma also highlighted the efforts of the Chief Minister’s Aatmanirbhar Assam Abhijan (CMAAA), which has been instrumental in assisting thousands of young entrepreneurs by providing financial aid, skill enhancement, and market access.

He remarked that this program has significantly contributed to promoting self-employment and business creation, especially among youth in rural and semi-urban regions. “On National Startup Day, we honor the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that is shaping India’s future,” CM Sarma stated, reaffirming Assam’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive startup ecosystem.

He indicated that the government is dedicated to establishing a conducive environment for young individuals to innovate, take risks, and create sustainable impacts.

The Chief Minister also noted the ongoing expansion of Assam’s startup ecosystem beyond traditional sectors into fields like agri-tech, food processing, healthcare, education technology, and green enterprises.

Additionally, he mentioned that the government is focused on enhancing incubation infrastructure, streamlining the ease of doing business, and fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and startups.

CM Sarma declared that the state recognizes startups as crucial drivers of economic growth, job creation, and technological progress.

With sustained policy backing and an increasingly entrepreneurial spirit, he emphasized that Assam is positioning itself as an emerging startup hub in the Northeast and beyond.