Assam’s Semiconductor Plant Spurs Investment and Infrastructure Growth
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the semiconductor plant in Assam’s Morigaon district has catalyzed the creation of a comprehensive ecosystem, drawing investment interests from multiple countries. Speaking at a session on semiconductors, the Minister for Railways, Electronics, and Information Technology highlighted that the establishment of the semiconductor assembly unit at Morigaon is positioning Assam as a significant hub in the sector. He further revealed plans for an additional unit to be set up in the state soon.
Global Investments in Assam’s Semiconductor Sector
Several companies from Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan are poised to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and establish offices in proximity to the semiconductor plant. This influx of international businesses is expected to enhance the region’s industrial landscape significantly. Vaishnaw emphasized that, beyond semiconductors, Assam is set to host manufacturing units for mobile phones and electronics, further diversifying its industrial base.
Infrastructure Developments Supporting Semiconductor Growth
In tandem with industrial expansion, the decision to establish the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) University at Jagiroad has been finalized. The land, previously encroached railway property, has been cleared to pave the way for the university’s construction. Additionally, an electronics manufacturing cluster is slated for development at Bongora in Kamrup district, with collaborative efforts from both central and state governments aiming to create a vibrant industrial hub.
Railway Projects Enhancing Connectivity
Vaishnaw detailed significant railway projects in the region, underscoring their close connection to semiconductor growth. Two new Amrit Bharat trains—Silchar-Guwahati Intercity and Guwahati-Agartala Intercity—have been sanctioned and are expected to be operational within the next 10 months. To improve connectivity, the government is working on doubling and tripling railway tracks, with plans to quadruple lines in the Chicken’s Neck area—the narrow strip connecting the Northeast with the rest of India. Among 90 railway stations in the Northeast, 60 stations in Assam will be upgraded to world-class Amrit stations, including Guwahati railway station.
The minister also unveiled plans to develop a 12-story IT hub at Guwahati railway station, with 10 floors dedicated to the IT industry. This initiative aims to strengthen the region’s technology ecosystem. In alignment with the government’s commitment to Bodoland, a railway workshop and manufacturing unit will be established as per the peace accord. The state government has allocated 750 acres in Bansbari for a railway coach manufacturing and repair facility. Additionally, an old locomotive remanufacturing unit is planned for Lumding.
To enhance Assam-Bhutan connectivity, efforts are underway to develop a railway link between Kokrajhar and Gelephu, facilitating improved trade and transportation between the two regions. The minister affirmed that 100% railway electrification in the entire Northeast is slated for completion by March 2026. The Centre has sanctioned Rs 10,000 crore for railway connectivity in the Northeast in the Budget, a significant increase from the previous allocation of Rs 2,000 crore.
These developments collectively signify a transformative phase for Assam, positioning it as a burgeoning hub for semiconductor manufacturing and associated industries, while simultaneously bolstering infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
