Ahead of the highly anticipated two-day Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit, the Assam cabinet has approved investment proposals worth Rs 1.22 lakh crore, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Sunday.
At a press conference, Sarma emphasized that the total investment amount could increase further as discussions continue. He also revealed that Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth Rs 15,000 crore would be signed at the district level, with a commitment to swiftly implement all proposals on the ground.
The sectors earmarked for investment include handloom, textiles, power, industries, and mines and minerals, although the piggery sector will not be part of the agreements. Sarma added that all MoUs would undergo thorough scrutiny before being approved by the Council of Ministers.
The cabinet rejected MoUs worth Rs 45,000 crore after they were found to be “casual” and “flimsy.” Sarma reassured that only serious and feasible proposals would be considered to avoid creating unnecessary euphoria among the people.
The Advantage Assam 2.0 summit, scheduled for February 25-26 in Guwahati, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event will be attended by several central ministers, ambassadors, business delegations from multiple countries, and top Indian industrialists.
As part of the celebrations for Assam Tea’s 200th anniversary, the state government has organized a grand Jhumoir dance ensemble on February 24. Over 8,000 Adivasi (tea tribe) dancers will perform in front of the Prime Minister and other dignitaries. Sarma further revealed that arrangements are being made to telecast the performance live in 800 tea gardens across the state, calling Jhumoir an integral part of Assamese culture.
(With inputs from TNIE)