The Assam government, fresh off securing a ₹27,000 crore investment from the Tata Group for a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Jagiroad, is now setting its sights on establishing a Defence Industrial Corridor (DIC). The proposed corridor, stretching from Guwahati to Tezpur, aims to attract foreign investment in defence-based industries, bolstering the state's economic and strategic significance.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been vocal about his ambition to transform Assam into a technology and manufacturing hub. He envisions the state producing not only semiconductor chips but also defence equipment, mobile phones, and other high-tech products.
The idea for a DIC in Assam was first discussed during the Aero India show in Bengaluru earlier this year, but initial talks stalled due to a lack of interest from state officials. However, recent developments, including the successful semiconductor deal and renewed interest from the Chief Minister, have revived the proposal.
A meeting of stakeholders is expected to take place in November, coinciding with the Global Investor Summit- Advantage Assam 2.0, where numerous foreign defence companies are slated to participate. The state government is also in the process of formulating a policy for the DIC, which will outline the specifics of the corridor's development and operation.
India currently has two Defence Industrial Corridors, one in Uttar Pradesh and another in Tamil Nadu. These corridors have been instrumental in boosting indigenous defence production and attracting foreign investment. Assam, with its strategic location and growing industrial base, is well-positioned to replicate this success.
The proposed DIC in Assam is expected to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and foster skill development in the state. It will also enhance India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing and contribute to the government's goal of doubling defence production to USD 25 billion by 2025.
However, the project is not without its challenges. The state government will need to secure approval from the Ministry of Defence and negotiate agreements with foreign companies for land leasing and investment. Additionally, the development of the corridor will require significant infrastructure investment and coordination between various stakeholders.
Despite these hurdles, the establishment of a Defence Industrial Corridor in Assam represents a significant opportunity for the state and the country. It is a testament to Assam's growing prominence in the national and global economy and its potential to become a major player in the defence manufacturing sector.
