Assam Emerges as a Key Player in India's Defence Manufacturing Sector
Assam's Transformation into a Defence Manufacturing Hub
Bimal Borah (Photo - @BimalBorah119 / X)
Guwahati, June 28: Assam is emerging as a significant center in India's defence and high-tech manufacturing landscape, according to Bimal Bora, the State Minister for Industry and Commerce. He shared insights on the State's evolution and ambitious plans during a recent consultation.
Speaking at the State-level consultation under the National Level Departmental Summit on Atmanirbharata in Defence Manufacturing, themed ‘Special Focus on Northeastern and Border States’, Bora highlighted the transition of Assam from a region once plagued by unrest to a peaceful and progressive area.
“Assam is set to become a new frontier for development and collaboration in our great nation,” he remarked, noting that the State's integration into India's defence manufacturing framework aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The Minister attributed the progress to the “double-engine commitment” from Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, which has propelled infrastructure improvements, industrial growth, and enhanced digital connectivity.
He pointed out that Assam has successfully drawn significant investments, including Tata Electronics’ semiconductor OSAT unit in Jagiroad, PepsiCo’s food processing plant, and FMCG operations by Hindustan Unilever.
“The Rs 27,000 crore Tata Semiconductor project stands as the largest in eastern India and the second-largest nationwide, marking a pivotal moment for the region's industrial development,” he stated.
Bora also emphasized Assam's focus on aerospace and defence, highlighting potential in MRO facilities, drone and UAV clusters, and industrial parks.
He noted that Assam's strategic location as a border State and gateway to the Northeast provides inherent advantages for defence logistics and rapid response capabilities.
“Assam is not merely vying for investments; it is presenting strategic value to India,” Bora asserted, underlining that defence manufacturing in the State would bolster India's security framework in the eastern and northeastern regions.
“The State has implemented investor-friendly policies, including the Industrial & Investment Policy of Assam, the Electronics Policy, and the Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Policy. A robust single-window clearance system has already facilitated over 2.5 million approvals, highlighting Assam’s business-friendly environment,” he added.
He concluded by outlining three key priorities: identifying Assam’s immediate offerings, understanding industry needs, and securing backing from the Ministry of Defence and the Government of India.