Assam's Economic Growth Surges: A Comprehensive Overview

Assam's Economic Progress

Guwahati, Jan 1: Assam has distinguished itself as the fastest-growing state economy in India, boasting an impressive growth rate of 45% from 2020 to 2025, significantly surpassing the national average of 29%, as reported by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during a detailed presentation on the state's advancements across various sectors.

According to data from the Reserve Bank of India, the state's economy has seen substantial growth, increasing from approximately Rs 4 lakh crore to over Rs 7.41 lakh crore in the current fiscal year.

“Assam is on a steady path to becoming a ‘Viksit’ state,” he remarked, noting a remarkable 54% rise in per capita income, which has escalated from Rs 1,03,371 in 2021 to Rs 1,69,185 over five years.

Reforms in Crime Control and Law Enforcement

In discussing reforms in law enforcement and policing, Sarma highlighted that Assam leads the nation in the implementation of three new criminal laws.

“There has been a significant decrease in crime reporting. In 2021, over 1.33 lakh complaints were lodged, while this year, the number has dropped to around 43,748,” he stated.

The Chief Minister also pointed out improvements in investigation results.

“The charge-sheeting rate has risen to 81%, meaning that 81 out of every 100 cases are now brought to court. The conviction rate has improved from a mere 6% in 2021 to 26.38% today,” he added, noting that Assam's performance is approaching the national average of 35%.

Regarding the anti-drug initiative, Sarma mentioned that narcotics valued at nearly Rs 2,900 crore have been confiscated over the past five years. He also indicated that around 2,000 foreign nationals have been identified and repatriated. “In the future, we will ensure repatriation within a week of identification,” he asserted.

Infrastructure Development

The Chief Minister detailed several major infrastructure projects that are enhancing Assam's connectivity.

Following the completion of the Dhola-Sadiya and Bogibeel bridges, four additional bridges over the Brahmaputra are currently under construction, including those connecting Guwahati–North Guwahati, Jorhat–Majuli, Palasbari–Sualkuchi, and the Dhubri–Phulbari bridge, which will be the longest in India.

“The Guwahati–North Guwahati bridge is set to open in February, while the Palasbari–Sualkuchi and Dhubri–Phulbari bridges are expected to be completed by 2027,” he noted. The Guwahati Ring Road project has also commenced.

Sarma announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned a 32-km elevated wildlife corridor in Kaziranga, with a budget of Rs 6,957 crore, and land acquisition is nearly finalized.

The Gohpur–Numaligarh underwater tunnel project has been expanded to include a railway line, raising the estimated cost from Rs 12,000 crore to nearly Rs 20,000 crore.

“Upon completion, the distance between Kokrajhar and Gohpur will reduce from 240 km to just 35 km,” he explained.

Other significant projects include the Guwahati Airport–Jalukbari elevated corridor, the development of a 60-acre aerocity with hotels and convention centers, and the Kokrajhar–Gelephu project, which is expected to have its foundation stone laid in February.

A railway wagon overhauling factory is also planned for Kokrajhar’s Basbari.

Advancements in Health, Power, and Education

In the healthcare sector, Sarma mentioned that Guwahati Medical College is undergoing modernization with support from the Asian Development Bank, costing Rs 2,200 crore, while a new medical college is set to be established in Bongaigaon this year.

Assam is also preparing to inaugurate the Kapili hydroelectric project and add 350 MW of solar energy to the grid, aided by pumped storage systems.

Highlighting cancer care as a flagship initiative, Sarma stated that 17 cancer hospitals are planned, with nine already operational.

“We are introducing a proton therapy machine worth Rs 500 crore to Assam, the first of its kind in any state government hospital in India,” he said, adding that funding will be sourced from CSR contributions, the World Bank, and public resources.

Investment, Employment, and Welfare Initiatives

Sarma emphasized that Assam has become a significant investment hub, receiving recognition at the World Economic Forum in Davos alongside Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Major investments include the Rs 27,000-crore Tata semiconductor project, Rs 28,000 crore expansion at Numaligarh Refinery, and Rs 400 crore project by the Northeast Gas Distribution Company.

Regarding employment, he stated that 1.46 lakh government jobs have already been created, with expectations to exceed 1.5 lakh soon.

“We are rapidly progressing towards our goal of two lakh jobs,” he noted. Additionally, one lakh youths have been empowered to start businesses without the need for bank mortgages.

Welfare initiatives have also expanded significantly.

Currently, 38 lakh individuals benefit from the Orunodoi scheme, while 32 lakh women have received support through various programs. Under Mission Basundhara, land rights have been granted to three lakh people, and cashless medical treatment now covers 26 lakh families.

The Chief Minister introduced Babu Asoni, a new financial assistance scheme for students pursuing higher education. Under this initiative, postgraduate students will receive Rs 2,000 monthly, while undergraduate students will get Rs 1,000 monthly, aimed at families with an annual income of up to Rs 4 lakh.

Sarma stated that this scheme, set to launch in February, aims to alleviate financial burdens on students and promote higher education, especially among economically disadvantaged youth.

He described the land rights bill for tea garden workers as transformative, noting that land acquisition has commenced following the Governor’s approval.

“If tea garden managements do not cooperate, all incentives provided to them will be revoked,” he cautioned.

The Chief Minister also highlighted governance achievements, including the passage of 156 legislations, adoption of 40 new policies, and 2,589 cabinet decisions, along with frequent visits from national leaders to Assam.

In conclusion, Sarma stated that Assam achieved zero rhino poaching in 2025, experienced rare wildlife sightings, and made significant progress in education with a notable decrease in school dropout rates. “Assam is now firmly on a path of growth, justice, and inclusive development,” he affirmed.