Assam is emerging as a powerhouse for industrial growth and regional trade, leveraging policies like ‘Act East’ and sustainable industrialisation. Manvendra Pratap Singh, IAS, Managing Director, Assam Industrial Development Corporation Limited (AIDC), shares insights on Assam’s industrial parks, green initiatives, and investment-friendly policies shaping its economic future in an exclusive interaction with Abhineet Kumar & Rose Jaiswal of Elets News Network (ENN). Edited excerpts:

How is AIDC addressing the growing global demand for sustainability by promoting green industries in Assam? Are there any landmark projects focused on renewable energy, waste management, or carbonneutral manufacturing?

At AIDC, we are actively promoting green industries in Assam to align with global sustainability demands. We have facilitated the establishment of ethanol industries in the industrial estates of Matia (Goalpara) and Darrang, contributing to reduced carbon emissions by blending ethanol with petrol. Additionally, we champion solar power adoption, encouraging industries to set up captive solar power plants—supporting Assam’s renewable energy targets and reducing dependence on nonrenewable sources.

The ‘Act East Policy’ has been a cornerstone for northeastern development. How is AIDC leveraging this policy to transform Assam into a regional trade and industrial hub connecting India with ASEAN countries?

Leveraging the ‘Act East Policy,’ we are transforming Assam into a regional trade and industrial hub by capitalising on its strategic location as the gateway to Northeast India and its proximity to ASEAN countries. AIDC actively encourages export-oriented industries in sectors such as electronics, agroprocessing, and renewable energy. By fostering industrial growth and trade connectivity, we are integrating Assam into global supply chains and positioning it as a preferred destination for foreign and domestic investments.

Industrial parks and logistics hubs have become central to Assam’s growth strategy. Could you provide updates on the operationalisation of major industrial zones, such as the Plastic Park in Tinsukia, or other sector-specific hubs, and their expected contribution to employment generation and exports?

AIDC is strategically developing industrial parks tailored to specific sectors. The Plastic Park in Tinsukia has attracted over 35 industries, creating a robust ecosystem for the plastic manufacturing sector. The Mega Food Park in Tihu, Nalbari, supports food processing, while the Agar Convention Center in Golaghat aims to boost the regional agarwood industry. Additionally, we have proposed an Electronics Manufacturing Cluster near the TATA Semiconductor Unit in Jagiroad to attract high-tech industries. Recently, we identified two sites for Medical Parks under the PM Global Medi City scheme. These initiatives are expected to generate significant employment and enhance exports.

Assam has seen a steady rise in investment interest. Could you detail the specific steps AIDC has taken to improve the ease of doing business, such as digital platforms for single-window clearance, fast-tracking project approvals, or setting up grievance redressal mechanisms for investors?

AIDC, under the guidance of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, has taken multiple initiatives to improve the ease of doing business. We provide a one-stop solution for investors across sectors, including a fast-track land allotment system through the Assam Single Window Agency. To ensure swift resolution of investor concerns, we have appointed nodal officers at the district level, facilitating smooth business operations and investment processes.

What are some of the latest success stories of investors or companies that have chosen Assam for their operations? How have they benefited from AIDC’s policies and infrastructure?

Assam has attracted several notable investors who have successfully established operations in the state. Gulshan Polyols Ltd., a leading ethanol manufacturer, commenced commercial production in record time, thanks to AIDC’s endto-end facilitation. PepsiCo has set up its first food manufacturing plant in the Northeast at Banekuchi, Nalbari, with construction already underway. These companies benefit from Assam’s attractive incentive policies, including the Production Linked Incentives under the Industrial & Investment Policy of Assam (Amended) 2023 and the Assam Ethanol Production Promotion Policy 2021.

With tourism gaining prominence in Assam, is AIDC exploring the integration of industrial and tourism infrastructure, such as eco-tourism projects or industrial heritage parks?

While the Assam Tourism Development Corporation is the nodal agency for tourism infrastructure, AIDC recognizes the potential for integrating industrial and tourism initiatives. We remain open to collaborations that can enhance industrial tourism, such as eco-industrial zones or heritage parks showcasing Assam’s industrial evolution.

Assam is rich in biodiversity. How does AIDC ensure that industrial projects strike a balance between economic development and environmental conservation, especially in ecologically sensitive zones?

AIDC prioritizes sustainable industrial development by restricting polluting industries in sensitive zones and actively promoting eco-friendly technologies. We enforce Assam Land Management Policy, ensuring that only non-obnoxious industries operate in our estates. Additionally, we mandate green buffer zones, requiring industries to plant trees along boundary walls to enhance ecological sustainability. We also encourage renewable energy adoption, water conservation, and low-carbon manufacturing practices to minimize environmental impact.

The Northeast Economic Corridor is seen as a gamechanger for the region. What steps is Assam taking under AIDC’s guidance to maximize its benefits, particularly in job creation and regional trade?

AIDC is leveraging the Northeast Economic Corridor to attract investments and boost employment. A significant milestone is the Tata Semiconductor Assembly & Test Unit in Jagiroad, a ₹27,000 crore project expected to generate 15,000 direct jobs and 11,000–12,000 indirect jobs. Additionally, Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit (Feb 25-26, 2025) will highlight Assam’s strategic advantages in sectors like electronics, semiconductors, renewable energy, agro-processing, and sustainable industries, attracting national and international investments.

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The industrial landscape in Assam is evolving rapidly. What are the most significant trends you’ve observed, such as the rise of digital industries, export-oriented units, or logistics hubs, and how is AIDC adapting to these changes?

AIDC is proactively adapting to emerging industrial trends by developing tailor-made infrastructure and policies. Key trends include:

• Digital Economy Growth – Assam has developed Guwahati IT Park (Bongora) and STPI-Guwahati to attract IT and digital industries.
• Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing – The upcoming Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in Jagiroad will further drive this sector.
• Export & Logistics Expansion – Assam has introduced dedicated policies like the Assam Logistics & Warehousing Policy and Assam Electronics Policy to support logistics hubs and export-oriented units.

By combining policy support, infrastructure development, and investment facilitation, AIDC is positioning Assam as a preferred industrial destination.

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