Assam launches startup and defence policies to propel industrialization and economic growth

In a major push towards industrialization, the Assam government has approved two key policies—the Assam Startup and Innovation Policy 2025 and the Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Policy—to drive entrepreneurship, innovation, and industrial development in the state.

Announcing the initiatives at a press conference, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the Assam Startup and Innovation Policy 2025 aims to expand the startup ecosystem by establishing incubation centers in universities and colleges. "For the first time, Assam has introduced a Startup Ministry, reinforcing our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship," he said. The policy is expected to integrate startups into Assam’s academic and technical institutions, including engineering colleges.

Additionally, the Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Policy is set to strengthen the state's industrial landscape by attracting investments in the defence and aerospace sectors.

As part of the upcoming Advantage Assam Summit, the government has identified several key sectors for growth, including tourism, renewable energy, hydrocarbons, electronics and semiconductors, aerospace and defence manufacturing, fragrance and flavor, mobility and logistics, bamboo-based industries, and the food and beverage sector.

Highlighting Assam’s potential in electronics and semiconductors, CM Sarma cited the skilled manpower emerging from the state’s engineering institutions, including IIT Guwahati. He also emphasized the fragrance and flavor industry, leveraging Assam’s rich agarwood (agar) resources and vast forest reserves. To support this sector, the state has introduced the E23 Policy.

The Chief Minister also pointed out the innovative use of bamboo in infrastructure, mentioning its potential replacement of iron crash barriers on highways through newly adopted technology.

With these policy initiatives, Assam aims to position itself as a leading hub for startups, defence manufacturing, and sustainable industries, driving long-term economic growth.