Assam is set to host Advantage Assam 2.0: Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 on February 25-26, 2025, at the Veterinary Field, Khanapara, Guwahati. This landmark event, organized by the Government of Assam, will be the largest investment promotion initiative in the region, drawing top-tier travel and business leaders from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, UK, US, Japan, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand.

The summit underscores Assam’s growing role as a global investment and tourism powerhouse, offering unique opportunities to engage with policymakers, industry visionaries, and business pioneers. As Assam emerges as a vital hub in Northeast India, the summit will highlight its economic transformation, robust infrastructure, and lucrative tourism sector, solidifying its position as a gateway for international business and travel expansion.

Strategically positioned in Northeast India, Assam is rapidly emerging as an economic and tourism hotspot. Long celebrated for its tea gardens and petroleum industry, the state is now accelerating growth across multiple sectors, including agriculture, food processing, handicrafts, tourism, and information technology.

“It’s inspiring to see leaders like Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma putting such a strong emphasis on Assam’s growth potential and development. His vision to transform Assam into a hub for tourism and investments truly highlights the state’s strategic importance in India’s northeastern corridor. Being bordered by nations like Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh opens up significant opportunities for cross-border trade, cultural exchanges, and international tourism, making Assam a natural gateway to Southeast Asia. The subsidy scheme will assist Assam to Boost travel, tourism and hospitality industry with upto 100% rebate on GST if any investor invest in Assam.

The Advantage Assam Investment Summit sounds like a game-changer, aiming to attract global investors while showcasing Assam’s infrastructure upgrades and peaceful environment as key selling points. It’s also remarkable to note the scale of development that Assam has achieved in the last decade. From enhanced infrastructure to peace-building efforts, the state’s progress is setting an example for others.

Benefits of Advantage ASSAM under the UNNATI Scheme announced by the Indian Government :

1. Capital subsidy upto 50%.
2. GST rebate upto 100% of capital invested equally split over a period of 10 years.

Therefore, the total reimbursement of investment is upto 150%.

As someone keenly interested in tourism and economic development, I believe these initiatives will not only position Assam as a preferred destination for tourists but also as a business-friendly state ripe for investments in diverse sectors like hospitality, trade, and technology. It’s leaders like these, with bold visions and strategic action, who lay the foundation for long-term growth. Looking forward to seeing how Assam continues to evolve,” says Vidwat Kumar Keshan, Associate Editor, Travel And Tour World.

Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit: Transforming Northeast India’s Economic Landscape

The Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit, scheduled for February 25-26, 2025, in Guwahati, is set to be a game-changer for Assam’s economic future. This highly anticipated event aims to attract global investors, policymakers, and industry leaders, positioning Assam as a prime investment destination. The summit will showcase Assam’s vast economic potential, emphasizing its strategic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia and highlighting opportunities in infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and tourism. With growing international interest from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan, China, the US, and Australia, this summit promises to be a landmark event in India’s Northeast economic transformation.

Welcome to UNNATI 2024: Transforming Industry in the North East

The Uttar Poorva Transformative Industrialization Scheme (UNNATI, 2024) marks a monumental step towards driving industrial growth and economic transformation in India’s North-eastern region (NER). Designed to meet the dynamic needs of manufacturing and service sectors, UNNATI is more than a policy—it’s a catalyst for regional progress, fostering innovation, growth, and sustainable development.

The Government of India is committed to empowering industries in the North East through this groundbreaking scheme. UNNATI offers a tailored approach to support industrial expansion and streamline operations, ensuring that industries thrive in a competitive environment. By incentivizing innovation and productivity, the scheme promises to unlock the region’s true potential.

Salient Features of UNNATI 2024

• Incentives for Growth: Access pre-defined, process-based incentives to foster expansion and sustainability.
• Simplified Application Process: A streamlined, hassle-free application system for industries to access benefits efficiently.
• Expert Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of experienced professionals to guide your industrial journey.
• Dedicated Support: A committed team focused on ensuring your success, every step of the way.

With UNNATI, industries in the NER can look forward to a brighter future built on innovation, collaboration, and growth. Join us today and become a part of this transformative journey. Together, we will create a prosperous and thriving North East, setting new benchmarks for industrial success in India!

Incentives Under UNNATI 2024: Driving Industrial Growth in the North East

The UNNATI 2024 Scheme provides a range of incentives to stimulate industrial growth in the North Eastern Region, catering to both new and expanding units.

Capital Investment Incentive (CII)

Eligible units in Zone A blocks can avail 30% of investments made in plant and machinery (for manufacturing) or building and durable assets (for services), with a cap of INR 5 crore (INR 10 crore for sectors exempt from GST). Zone B blocks offer a higher incentive of 50%, capped at INR 7.5 crore (INR 10 crore for non-GST sectors). This one-time incentive is applicable to new units or expansions meeting specific investment thresholds.

Capital Interest Subvention (CIS)

Units investing in eligible plant, machinery, or physical assets can claim interest subvention on loans up to INR 250 crore. For Zone A, a 3% interest subvention is available for up to 7 years, while Zone B offers 5% for the same period. Disbursements begin post-commercial production.

Manufacturing & Services Linked Incentive (MSLI)

New units can claim 100% of Net GST payments for 10 years in Zone B and 75% in Zone A. GST on exports is excluded, and unclaimed incentives can be carried forward, ensuring flexibility.

The scheme, with a budget outlay of INR 10,037 crore, is open for registration until March 31, 2026, with units required to commence production within 4 years of registration. Incentives are subject to fund availability and guidelines.

Why Choose UNNATI?

The UNNATI 2024 Scheme is a game-changer for industries looking to invest in the North Eastern Region (NER). Here’s why participating in this initiative can drive significant growth and success:

1. Financial Stimulus

UNNATI offers a wide range of financial incentives, including subsidies and interest rate assistance, to ease capital costs and enhance profitability. From Capital Investment Incentives to Capital Interest Subvention, the scheme ensures industries receive robust financial support, reducing the cost burden of expansion or new ventures.

2. Employment Generation

The scheme is poised to create 83,000 direct employment opportunities, fostering economic growth and building strong backward and forward linkages. By generating jobs across sectors, UNNATI contributes to the socio-economic upliftment of the region.

3. Boosting Atmanirbhar Bharat

Aligned with India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, UNNATI emphasizes the domestic manufacturing of goods and services. This focus helps unlock export potential, reduce import dependence, and strengthen India’s position as a global manufacturing hub.

4. Government Endorsement

UNNATI is a government-backed initiative, offering a trustworthy and reliable framework for industries to receive financial aid and operational support. The initiative provides industries with a dependable platform to grow sustainably and thrive in a competitive market.

By participating in UNNATI, industries can access unparalleled opportunities for growth, innovation, and success while contributing to the development of the North Eastern Region. It’s more than a scheme—it’s a gateway to industrial transformation.

Electronic City in Jagiroad: Paving the Way for High-Tech Innovation

In a significant move to boost Assam’s electronics manufacturing sector, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced plans for an Electronics City in Jagiroad. This project will focus on semiconductors, high-tech electronics, and research-based industries, creating a hub for innovation, job creation, and sustainable industrial growth. With a robust infrastructure push, Assam is fast becoming an attractive destination for high-tech investments, further strengthening its economic credentials.

Sonowal Kachari Sahitya Sabha’s Biennial Session: Celebrating Assam’s Literary and Cultural Heritage

The Sonowal Kachari Sahitya Sabha has inaugurated its biennial session in Dhemaji, fostering Assam’s rich literary and cultural traditions. Featuring book fairs, cultural programs, and literary discussions, the event showcases the state’s linguistic diversity and vibrant artistic expression, strengthening its identity as a cultural powerhouse in India’s Northeast.

With its proximity to Southeast Asia and improving infrastructure, Assam is poised to become a key player in India’s Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen economic ties with ASEAN nations. The Brahmaputra River’s connectivity, expanding road and rail networks, and the upcoming industrial corridors will further boost trade and investment inflows.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the state’s immense potential to emerge as a major hub for tourism and investments, highlighting its strategic location bordered by four nations—Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. He pointed out that Assam’s geographical advantage presents a unique opportunity to boost industry, commerce, and infrastructure development.

Addressing the upcoming Advantage Assam investment summit, Sarma expressed confidence in the event’s ability to attract significant investments. “This summit will act as a gateway for industrial growth and infrastructure expansion in Assam,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister also reflected on the remarkable transformation Assam has undergone since the BJP assumed power at the Centre. He stated, “Those who haven’t visited Assam before 2014 cannot grasp the magnitude of the development achieved over the past decade. Our focused efforts in ensuring peace have been accompanied by extensive infrastructure advancements across all sectors.”

Sarma credited the state’s progress to peace-building initiatives and infrastructure upgrades, which have created a conducive environment for investments and economic growth. The Chief Minister’s remarks underscored Assam’s readiness to position itself as a key player in tourism, industry, and commerce, further bolstered by the Advantage Assam summit.

Assam’s tourism industry is also experiencing exponential growth, attracting travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences, nature retreats, and adventure tourism. Government-led initiatives and private sector investments are modernising Assam’s hospitality sector, with luxury hotels, eco-resorts, and homestays expanding across the region. The state’s abundant wildlife, including Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, is drawing international eco-tourists, while its vibrant festivals and historical sites are adding to its allure.

Assam: A Rising Economic and Industrial Powerhouse

Assam, the largest economy in Northeast India, is emerging as a key hub for industrial investment and inclusive growth. With a GDP growth rate of 8%, Assam’s per capita GDP stands at INR 6,756 at constant prices, demonstrating its rapid strides in employment generation and economic diversification. The state’s Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) reveals that over 30% of its economy is contributed by agriculture and allied activities, significantly higher than the national average, emphasizing its agrarian strength.

The state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth rate is projected at 7.97% for 2007-08, driven by robust performances in sectors like Manufacturing, Electricity, Transport, Banking, and Public Administration. The services sector is expected to grow at an impressive 13.06%, showcasing Assam’s shift toward a service-led economy. At current prices, GSDP growth is projected at 11.79%, reflecting a stable and improving economic landscape.

Natural Resources and Locational Advantage

Assam is India’s largest producer of tea, contributing 15% of the nation’s crude oil and 50% of its onshore natural gas production. With abundant hydro energy, minerals, agro-climatic zones, forests, and medicinal plants, Assam offers vast opportunities for investment.

Strategically located as the gateway to Northeast India, Assam provides access to neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, along with proximity to ASEAN and SAARC nations. This geographical advantage positions Assam as a vital trade and investment hub.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Assam boasts robust connectivity with 1983 km of navigable waterways, including the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers, designated as National Waterways. The Asian Highway No. 1 and the East-West Corridor traverse the region, enabling seamless movement of goods and services. Major river ports like Pandu, Guwahati, and Karimganj facilitate international trade via Bangladesh.

The state is well-connected by broad-gauge railways, while Guwahati serves as a key gateway, offering direct road, rail, and air links to major Indian cities. Industrial Growth Centers, Industrial Parks, and Integrated Industrial Development (IID) Projects are operational across Assam, supporting industrialization.

Policies and Incentives

Assam’s tax-free zones and attractive state and central incentives under the NEIIPP 2007 and Assam Industrial Policy 2008 make it an investor-friendly destination. These policies provide subsidies and tax benefits for the manufacturing and services sectors, along with special tax incentives for Export-Oriented Units (EOUs).

With skilled and cost-competitive manpower, English-speaking professionals, and readily available industrial land, Assam offers unmatched potential for investment in key areas like infrastructure, petrochemicals, adventure tourism, and export-driven industries.

In conclusion, Assam’s robust economy, abundant resources, strategic location, and favorable policies position it as a promising destination for investments and industrial growth, driving the region toward inclusive and sustainable development.

India’s Thriving Tourism Industry and Assam’s Untapped Potential

India’s tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by government initiatives, infrastructure development, and increasing global appeal. The Indian travel market is projected to reach USD 125 billion by FY 2027, powered by a surge in domestic and international travel. The industry’s GDP contribution is expected to hit USD 254.8 billion in 2024, with forecasts estimating a rise to USD 521.1 billion by 2034, generating nearly 63 million jobs. India welcomed 9.24 million foreign tourists in 2023, a 43.5% increase from the previous year, showcasing its strong recovery and growing reputation as a global travel hub.

Why Assam? A Promising Tourism Hotspot

1. Natural Beauty and Cultural Significance

• Assam is home to 7 National Parks and 11 wildlife sanctuaries, making it a biodiversity hotspot ideal for nature and wildlife tourism.
• The state is rich in cultural heritage, featuring landmarks such as Kamakhya Temple and Navagraha Temple, drawing religious travelers.

2. Thriving Adventure and Eco-Tourism

• Assam offers river rafting, angling, trekking, and rock climbing, along with 10+ picturesque golf courses, positioning it as an adventure tourism hub.

3. Global Appeal with UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• Assam boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enhancing its potential as a major international travel destination.

4. Expanding Investment Opportunities

Government incentives encourage adventure tourism, river cruises, and MICE tourism, attracting global investors.

Moreover, Assam’s role in facilitating international business travel is being bolstered by enhanced connectivity through new international flight routes and expanding airport facilities. As Assam continues its trajectory as an economic and tourism hub, its strategic location and growing infrastructure position it as a crucial gateway for trade, business, and leisure in Northeast India and beyond.

Assam’s Transformational Leap: Advantage Assam 2.0 and the Vision for a Defence Corridor

The northeastern state of Assam is on the brink of a monumental transformation as it gears up to host the highly anticipated Advantage Assam 2.0 – Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025. Scheduled for February 25-26 in Guwahati, the Summit aims to position Assam as a premier global investment hub. Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam is taking bold and strategic steps to attract investors, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the globe. Among these initiatives, the proposal to establish a defence corridor stands out as a game-changing move that promises to redefine Assam’s role in India’s economic and strategic landscape.

A Defence Corridor in Assam: A Strategic and Economic Vision

One of the most ambitious proposals in the lead-up to the Summit is Assam’s ongoing negotiations with the Defence Ministry to establish a defence corridor stretching from Guwahati to Nagaon. This initiative is rooted in Assam’s strategic location in the Northeast, a region that shares borders with China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has articulated the critical need for this corridor, emphasizing that more than half of India’s defence ammunition is already stationed in the Northeast. “Where there is demand, there should also be local supply,” Dr. Sarma asserted, highlighting Assam’s potential to become a key player in India’s defence production and supply chain.

The proposed corridor would enhance India’s defence preparedness, particularly in sensitive areas like the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken Neck,” which connects the Northeast to the rest of India. By establishing facilities for manufacturing and servicing military equipment, tanks, and ordnance, the corridor would not only strengthen India’s national security but also catalyze industrial growth in Assam. The project is expected to attract significant investments, create thousands of jobs, and position Assam as the third state in India to host a defence corridor, following Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Advantage Assam 2.0: A Platform for Growth and Global Partnerships

Advantage Assam 2.0 is more than just a showcase of the state’s economic potential; it represents Assam’s rapid transformation into a leading investment destination. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck expected to attend, the Summit has already captured global attention. The Assam Government has invited diplomats, ambassadors, and industry leaders from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, European, and other nations to explore the state’s vast opportunities in sectors such as infrastructure, green energy, tourism, agriculture, and defence manufacturing.

Chief Minister Dr. Sarma, in his keynote address, outlined Assam’s robust economic trajectory, with the state’s economy growing at an impressive 12.5%. He also highlighted the government’s ambitious infrastructure projects, which include three new bridges over the Brahmaputra River, a satellite city near Guwahati (developed in collaboration with Singapore), and a railway line connecting Guwahati to Gelephu in Bhutan. These initiatives underline Assam’s commitment to building world-class infrastructure to facilitate trade, tourism, and industrial development.

Assam: A Strategic Gateway

Strategically positioned as the gateway to Northeast India, Assam is uniquely placed to serve as a bridge between India and Southeast Asia. The state’s proximity to Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar provides unparalleled opportunities for cross-border trade and collaboration. With a growing focus on green energy, sustainable infrastructure, and industrial expansion, Assam is poised to become a key player in the regional and global economy.

The Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit, coupled with the visionary proposal for a defence corridor, reflects the state’s determination to transform into an economic powerhouse. With its strategic location, robust infrastructure projects, and focus on key sectors, Assam is not just inviting investments but positioning itself as a critical node in India’s economic and strategic framework. This transformational vision, driven by strong leadership and ambitious initiatives, is setting the stage for Assam to become a global hub for trade, tourism, and industrial growth.

Assam’s Green and Sustainable Vision

Assam is embracing sustainability as a cornerstone of its development. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has emphasized the state’s commitment to green energy, urging industries to adopt renewable sources. A notable example is the Tata semiconductor plant at Jagiroad, which will produce 48 million chips per day, powered entirely by green energy. This aligns with Assam’s ambition to lead India’s renewable energy and green industry revolution.

The government’s efforts extend to skill development, with the North East Skill Centre training 10,000 youths for emerging industries. Additionally, a Rs. 25,000 crore production-linked incentive fund aims to accelerate industrial growth and attract large-scale investments.

Assam: A Land of Opportunities

Beyond its economic potential, Assam offers rich natural resources, cultural heritage, and biodiversity. Conservation successes in Kaziranga and Manas National Parks reflect Assam’s dedication to balancing ecological preservation with development. On February 24, ahead of the Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit, 8,000 dancers will perform the traditional Jhumur dance, showcasing the state’s vibrant cultural heritage.

A Vision Backed by Endorsements

Union Minister Piyush Goyal has praised Assam’s strengths in agriculture, sericulture, and food processing, highlighting innovative tourism ideas like helipads near national parks. Assam’s strategic location, robust connectivity, skilled workforce, and industry-friendly policies have further bolstered its reputation as an investment destination.

With its sustainable initiatives, economic vibrancy, and cultural richness, Assam invites the world to join its transformative growth journey at Advantage Assam 2.0. The state is ready to shine as a beacon of progress for Northeast India.

The state offers growth potential in hospitality, including hotels, resorts, and homestays.

Assam’s economic surge is evident in its impressive 19.5% year-on-year Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth in 2023. This strong economic performance highlights Assam’s dynamic leadership, progressive policies, and growing investor confidence.

One of the key investment breakthroughs includes the USD 3.3 billion Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) project by TATA in Jagiroad, a landmark deal showcasing Assam’s emergence as a major industrial hub.

The state is witnessing unprecedented investor confidence, leading to multinational corporations, global business houses, and venture capitalists flocking to Assam to explore its high-growth potential. With its pro-business regulatory environment, ease of doing business policies, and increasing global interest, Assam is set to become a preferred destination for large-scale infrastructure and industrial investments.

The Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit will highlight how government incentives, public-private partnerships, and investor-friendly reforms are transforming the region into an international business epicenter. The surge in interest from global leaders from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, UK, US, Japan, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand demonstrates Assam’s rising influence on the world stage.

With this dynamic progress, Assam is not only strengthening its trade, commerce, and tourism sectors but is also positioning itself as a future-ready, innovation-driven economic powerhouse in South Asia.

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