Assam's Industrial Growth Dependent on Public Support, Says Chief Minister
Chief Minister's Call for Support
Guwahati, June 10: On Tuesday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized that the future of Assam's industrial sector, which is projected to attract investments of around Rs 5.18 lakh crore through Advantage Assam 2.0, relies heavily on the support of its citizens.
During a press conference celebrating the first anniversary of the Modi 3.0 administration, Sarma expressed his worries that ongoing protests against land acquisition for industrial developments are discouraging significant investors.
The Chief Minister pointed out that he has been postponing visits from Japanese business delegations interested in investing in Assam due to the current public unrest.
"If these delegations witness the protests, it could create a negative perception of Assam, making them hesitant to invest," Sarma remarked.
He referenced the withdrawal of Tata's Nano manufacturing unit from West Bengal in 2008, which occurred after intense local opposition, noting that this incident severely damaged West Bengal's image as a favorable investment destination, a setback from which it has not fully recovered.
Sarma revealed that his administration has proposals for industries worth Rs 1 lakh crore that are pending establishment in Assam, including two thermal projects valued at Rs 50,000 crore, 18 bio-refineries, and nine large factories.
"We simply require land. If the community continues to resist our efforts to secure land for industrial development, what options do we have?" Sarma expressed his frustration over the opposition.
He reiterated the serious repercussions of obstructing industrial progress, noting that the absence of local industries compels Assamese youth to seek employment in other states like Gujarat and Karnataka, often under difficult circumstances, sometimes leading to tragic outcomes.
"If the people of Assam persist in hindering development, the youth will have no choice but to leave their homeland," he cautioned.
In a passionate appeal, the Chief Minister urged the citizens to support the government's development efforts, with the goal of positioning Assam among the leading states in the country.
"We need to learn to prioritize our needs and advance accordingly," Sarma concluded, assuring that "development will not be halted under this government. The people of Assam should not obstruct their own path to prosperity."