The second edition of the “Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit” concluded on a historic note, with investment proposals totaling nearly INR 4.91 lakh crore. The two-day event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, positioned Assam as a land of untapped potential, with significant opportunities in tourism and hospitality emerging as key highlights.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized Assam’s economic growth under the BJP government, with the state’s GDP doubling to ₹6 lakh crore. Addressing industrialists, he described Assam as a “land of limitless opportunities,” urging them to invest in the region’s rich cultural heritage, pristine landscapes, and growing tourism potential.
Among the 270 MoUs signed, several focused on tourism, culture, and hospitality, reflecting Assam’s strategic push to attract both domestic and international travelers. These commitments align with Assam’s growing reputation as a gateway to Northeast India, offering unique eco-tourism, heritage properties, and adventure tourism experiences.
Key investment announcements in tourism included the development of luxury eco-resorts, boutique hotels, and cultural tourism hubs. Union Minister Piyush Goyal, during his valedictory address, highlighted tourism as one of the “3 Ts” – trade, technology, and tourism – that will drive Assam’s development.
The summit welcomed over 14,500 participants, including 67 foreign dignitaries and representatives from 76 countries, indicating a strong global interest in Assam’s hospitality sector. Notable investors like the Tata Group, Adani, and Vedanta showed enthusiasm for developing infrastructure that supports tourism growth.
Union Minister for Road, Transport, and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced transformative infrastructure projects worth INR 80,000 crore, including a tunnel under the Brahmaputra River, an elevated corridor at Kaziranga National Park, and a ring road around Guwahati. These projects are expected to enhance connectivity and accessibility to key tourist destinations, making Assam more attractive for hospitality investments.
Further, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Shipping and Waterways, pledged INR 4,800 crore for waterways development, including terminals, ship repair facilities, and alternate roads for ports. These initiatives will not only improve logistics but also support the growth of river-based tourism, an area with immense potential in Assam.
Assam’s commitment to sustainable and community-led tourism was evident during the summit. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized practical and actionable projects, prioritizing investments that could be implemented effectively. This approach aligns with Assam’s focus on preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage while fostering economic growth.
With a strategic focus on tourism and infrastructure, Assam presents a lucrative opportunity for hospitality players to invest in eco-friendly resorts, wellness retreats, heritage hotels, and adventure tourism facilities. The development of waterways and enhanced road connectivity will open up remote areas, allowing travelers to explore Assam’s hidden gems, including its tea estates, wildlife sanctuaries, and vibrant cultural festivals.
As Assam positions itself as the “crown of the Ashtalakshmi states,” its people’s warmth, hard work, and hospitality will play a pivotal role in shaping the region into a leading tourism and hospitality destination. With INR 4.91 lakh crore in commitments, the state is set to transform its hospitality landscape, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and innovation in the sector.
source: Mint
