Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has raised serious concerns about land acquisition challenges stalling key infrastructure and development projects in the state, warning that over ₹1 lakh crore worth of investments are being held back due to these obstacles. Speaking at a press conference on the 11th anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, Sarma urged the people of Assam to embrace industrial development for the greater good. He stressed that public awareness and support for long-term benefits over short-term losses are essential to fast-tracking Assam’s progress. “Projects are getting delayed due to lack of land. This is a hurdle we must overcome. Development means jobs, opportunities, and better lives,” Sarma said. He cited the example of the Amaravati township model, where landowners chose to cooperate for long-term gains despite personal losses. “I am fighting for 500 bighas of land here in Assam. People are affected, but if we want to move forward, we must think beyond today,” he added.
Sarma highlighted how other northeastern states, especially Arunachal Pradesh, have made rapid progress in infrastructure. “Today, Arunachal Pradesh has the best roads, and train connectivity is improving. Assam too can achieve this if we resolve our land issues,” he said. He also drew comparisons with Gujarat’s successful development model, referencing the Tata Nano project that was shifted from West Bengal to Gujarat due to land disputes. “That one move transformed Gujarat. Assam can follow the same path if we learn from such examples,” Sarma stated. The Chief Minister expressed optimism about major industrial players, including Tata, Adani, and Ambani, showing interest in investing in Assam. He also hinted at the potential for Japanese investment, saying, “If we can resolve land agitation issues, investment from Japan is also possible. The big players are ready, we just need to prepare the ground.”
Projects like the proposed aerocity in Guwahati are expected to generate 25,000 jobs, up from the current 10,000, Sarma noted, underlining how land acquisition directly impacts employment generation. He also praised Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to Assam, mentioning his repeated visits and his vision for the Northeast. “No prime minister ever said ‘A for Assam’ before. Modi ji has a special vision for us, and we are determined to fulfil it,” Sarma said.
